Martínez Double Ensures Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score despite pressure was decisive in earning three points.
Additional European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb 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 quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The title race goes on with multiple teams in the mix.
