Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to score even with pressure was crucial in earning three points.
Other European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring 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 equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
