Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Serie A title race despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to convert despite pressure proved decisive in earning three points.
Other Continental Matches
In Spain, the Basque side mounted 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 scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The title race goes on with several clubs in the mix.
