Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous chances, 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 seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was decisive in earning the victory.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike 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 pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the last word late in added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The title race continues with several clubs in the mix.
