Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly involved in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with pressure proved decisive in earning the victory.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several clubs in the mix.