Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly involved in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the table with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was crucial in securing three points.
Additional Continental Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring 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. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race continues with several teams competing.