Martínez Brace Ensures Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much engaged in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning display.
- The title race continues with several teams in the mix.
