Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the table with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a efficient 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 pressure was decisive in earning three points.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race goes on with multiple teams competing.
