Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly involved in the Italian league title race despite a somewhat shaky performance.
League Table Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener 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 close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Other European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ goals 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. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple teams competing.
