Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing performance.
Standings Update
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 just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s capacity to score even with difficult circumstances was crucial in earning three points.
Additional European Action
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word late in stoppage time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive display.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs competing.
