Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to score even with pressure proved crucial in securing three points.
Additional Continental Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the last word deep into stoppage time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
