Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the standings with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to convert despite pressure proved crucial in securing three points.
Other European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the last word deep into stoppage time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple teams competing.