Martínez Double Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much involved in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals 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 hosts created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances proved decisive in earning three points.
Other European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback 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 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. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive display.
- The title race continues with several clubs in the mix.
