Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, 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 Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s capacity to score despite pressure proved decisive in securing three points.
Other Continental Matches
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic fightback 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 shortly 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. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to return to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in tight contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race goes on with multiple clubs competing.
