Martínez Double Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing performance.
League Table Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to convert despite pressure proved crucial in earning three points.
Other European Action
In Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say late in stoppage time.
Later on Spanish match, 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 close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs competing.
