Martínez Double Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly involved in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances was crucial in earning the victory.
Additional European Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal 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 soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive display.
- The battle for first goes on with several clubs competing.
