Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much engaged in the Italian league title race in spite of a less than convincing performance.
League Table Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking 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 forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances was crucial in securing the victory.
Other Continental Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour 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. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word late in stoppage time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs in the mix.
