Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the table with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s capacity to convert despite pressure was crucial in earning three points.
Additional European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad 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’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with multiple teams competing.
