Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
League Table Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score even with pressure proved crucial in earning the victory.
Additional Continental Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute 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 had the last word deep into added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
