Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score even with pressure was crucial in earning the victory.
Additional Continental Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ goals 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 equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs in the mix.