Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much involved in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances was crucial in earning three points.
Additional Continental Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose 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 quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive display.
- The battle for first goes on with several clubs competing.
