Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
League Table Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Game 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 defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to score even with pressure was decisive in securing the victory.
Additional European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say deep into stoppage time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several clubs competing.
