Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing performance.
League Table Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances was crucial in earning three points.
Additional European Matches
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage 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 reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into stoppage time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple teams in the mix.
