Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with pressure was crucial in earning the victory.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour 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 delivered the last word late in added time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in tight contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The title race continues with multiple clubs competing.
