Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly engaged in the Italian league title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances was decisive in earning the victory.
Other European Action
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. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute 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. However, Moleiro delivered the final say late in added time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
