Martínez Double Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much engaged in the Italian league title race in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering 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 hosts created plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s capacity to convert despite pressure was decisive in securing three points.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s 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. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in tight contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive performance.
- The title race continues with several clubs competing.
