Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to earn his side 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
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s capacity to score even with difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ goals 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 equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
