Martínez Double Keeps Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert even with pressure was crucial in earning the victory.
Additional European Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to return to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight pursuit for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race goes on with several teams competing.
