Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing performance.
League Table Update
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert despite pressure was decisive in earning three points.
Other Continental Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage 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 pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive performance.
- The title race continues with several clubs competing.
