Martínez Double Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly engaged in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the table with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances was crucial in securing the victory.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word late in stoppage time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive display.
- The title race continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
