Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Italian league title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the table with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances proved crucial in earning three points.
Additional European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ 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 leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
- The battle for first continues with several teams in the mix.
