Martínez Double Keeps Inter Milan 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 firmly engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing performance.
League Table Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th spot 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 throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert despite pressure was decisive in securing three points.
Other Continental Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the final say late in added time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several clubs competing.
