Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly involved in the Italian league title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert even with pressure was decisive in securing the victory.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to return to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
