Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s capacity to score despite difficult circumstances proved crucial in earning three points.
Additional Continental Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added 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 reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs in the mix.
