Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert even with pressure proved decisive in securing three points.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal 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 reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say deep into stoppage time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams in the mix.
