Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged in the Serie A title race despite a less than convincing performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances proved crucial in earning three points.
Additional Continental Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ 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 equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs in the mix.
