Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score despite pressure was crucial in securing three points.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize 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 30-minute 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. However, Moleiro had the last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
