Martínez Double Ensures Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly involved in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances proved crucial in earning three points.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour 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. However, Moleiro had the last word deep into added time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs competing.
