Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly engaged in the Italian league title race despite a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with pressure was crucial in securing the victory.
Other Continental Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute 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 had the last word late in added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple teams in the mix.
