Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Serie A championship battle despite a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances proved crucial in securing the victory.
Other European Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just 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. However, Moleiro delivered the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs in the mix.
