Martínez Brace Ensures Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the standings with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances proved crucial in securing the victory.
Additional European Matches
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’ scoring 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 delivered the final say late in stoppage time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first continues with several teams in the mix.