Martínez Brace Ensures Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged in the Serie A title race despite a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to score despite pressure proved crucial in securing three points.
Other Continental Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit 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 requiring a victory to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
