Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Serie A title race despite a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances was decisive in securing the victory.
Other Continental Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling 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 goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly 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 had the last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive display.
- The title race goes on with multiple teams in the mix.
