Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much involved in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
League Table Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was crucial in earning the victory.
Additional European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a thrilling fightback 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 half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the last word deep into added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs in the mix.
