Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked 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 capacity to score despite pressure was decisive in earning three points.
Additional Continental Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly 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 delivered the final say late in added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The title race continues with multiple clubs competing.
