Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances proved decisive in earning the victory.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say late in added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
