Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much involved in the Serie A championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled 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 score even with pressure was crucial in securing the victory.
Additional European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike 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 pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word deep into added time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs competing.
