Martínez Brace Ensures Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Other Continental Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The title race goes on with several teams competing.
