Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to score despite pressure proved decisive in securing the victory.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly 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 had the final say deep into stoppage time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to return to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs competing.