Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly engaged in the Italian league title race in spite of a less than convincing performance.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener 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.
The team’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances was decisive in earning the victory.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly 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. Yet, Moleiro had the last word late in stoppage time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The title race continues with several teams in the mix.
