Martínez Double Ensures Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of chances, but a clinical 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 with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert even with difficult circumstances was crucial in earning three points.
Other European Action
In Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning performance.
- The title race continues with several clubs competing.
