Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to score even with pressure proved decisive in earning the victory.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour 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 last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
