Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score even with pressure was decisive in earning the victory.
Other Continental Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour 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 final say deep into stoppage time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with several teams competing.
