Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much involved in the Italian league championship battle despite a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by 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 top of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with pressure was decisive in earning three points.
Other Continental Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race goes on with several clubs competing.