Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances was decisive in securing the victory.
Additional European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged 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. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into added time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring 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 tight contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple teams competing.
