Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Additional European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour 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. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs competing.
