Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Italian league title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to score despite pressure was crucial in earning the victory.
Other European Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive display.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
