Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Overview
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score even with pressure proved crucial in securing three points.
Other Continental Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute 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 last word deep into added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple teams competing.