Martínez Double Ensures Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged in the Italian league title race despite a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score even with pressure was decisive in securing the victory.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say late in added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race goes on with several clubs in the mix.