Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged in the Italian league title race in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert despite pressure was decisive in securing three points.
Other European Action
In Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s 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 equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the last word deep into stoppage time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close pursuit for the Serie A title.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs in the mix.
