Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much involved in the Serie A championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the standings with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to score even with difficult circumstances proved decisive in earning the victory.
Other Continental Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added 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. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in tight pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with several teams competing.
