Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score despite pressure was crucial in securing three points.
Additional European Action
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 stoppage 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 pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word late in added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race continues with multiple teams in the mix.
