Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing performance.
League Table Update
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances proved crucial in securing three points.
Other Continental Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals 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 final say late in added time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive display.
- The title race continues with several teams competing.
