Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much engaged in the Serie A championship battle despite a less than convincing performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, 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 efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to convert even with pressure proved crucial in securing the victory.
Other European Action
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling 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 goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute 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 deep into added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The title race continues with several clubs in the mix.
