Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to score even with difficult circumstances was crucial in earning three points.
Additional European Action
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 added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into stoppage time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple teams in the mix.
