Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score even with pressure was decisive in earning the victory.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in tight contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive display.
- The battle for first continues with multiple teams in the mix.
