Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert even with pressure proved crucial in securing the victory.
Additional European Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs competing.