Martínez Double Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Serie A championship battle despite a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points total, tied 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 aiming to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances proved crucial in earning the victory.
Additional European Action
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say late in added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to return to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams in the mix.
