Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances proved decisive in earning the victory.
Other Continental Matches
Across 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 goals 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 equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say late in added time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple teams in the mix.