Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly involved in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was decisive in securing the victory.
Other Continental Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ scoring 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 equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the final say late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple teams in the mix.
