Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the table with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was decisive in earning the victory.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs competing.
