Martínez Double Keeps Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
League Table Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score even with pressure was crucial in securing three points.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute 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 had the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive display.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
