Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the standings with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances was crucial in earning three points.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring 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 delivered the last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in tight contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.