Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly engaged in the Serie A title race despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s capacity to score despite difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to return to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The title race continues with multiple teams competing.
