Martínez Double Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly engaged in the Italian league title race despite a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the table with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s capacity to convert even with difficult circumstances proved decisive in earning the victory.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say late in added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in tight pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several clubs competing.
