Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing performance.
League Table Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s capacity to score despite pressure proved crucial in securing the victory.
Additional European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal 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 reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive display.
- The title race continues with several teams competing.
