Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly involved in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the standings with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert despite pressure proved crucial in securing three points.
Other European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling fightback 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 just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first goes on with several clubs competing.
