Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much involved in the Serie A title race despite a less than convincing performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert despite pressure was decisive in earning the victory.
Additional European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute 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 delivered the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to go back to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The title race continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
