Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Italian league title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous chances, 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 forward then tapped in from point-blank seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to convert despite pressure proved decisive in earning three points.
Additional Continental Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly 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. Yet, Moleiro had the final say late in added time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race goes on with several teams competing.
