Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind 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 derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances was decisive in earning the victory.
Other European Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just 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 added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to return to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs in the mix.
