Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances was crucial in earning the victory.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ 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 leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning performance.
- The title race continues with multiple clubs competing.
