Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the table with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to score despite pressure proved crucial in securing three points.
Other Continental Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s scoring 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. However, Moleiro had the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
