Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Serie A championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert despite pressure proved decisive in earning the victory.
Additional European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in tight contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams in the mix.
