Martínez Double Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
League Table Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances was crucial in securing three points.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals 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 final say late in stoppage time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel 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 remain in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The title race continues with several teams in the mix.
