Martínez Double Keeps Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory 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 now sit in third position in the table with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert even with pressure was crucial in securing three points.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning display.
- The title race continues with several clubs in the mix.
