Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much involved in the Italian league title race despite a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances was crucial in securing the victory.
Other Continental Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage 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 pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The title race continues with several teams competing.
