Martínez Brace Ensures Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the standings with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian 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 ability to convert even with difficult circumstances proved crucial in securing three points.
Other Continental Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first goes on with several clubs competing.
