Martínez Double Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly involved in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a clinical 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 tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert despite pressure proved crucial in earning three points.
Other Continental Action
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 stoppage time. The visitors’ goals 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. Yet, Moleiro had the last word late in added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs competing.
