Martínez Double Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock 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 ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Additional European Matches
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 stoppage time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into added time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive display.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple teams competing.