Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners

Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.

League Table Update

Under Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.

Game Summary

Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.

Inter’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances proved crucial in securing the victory.

Additional Continental Action

In Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize 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 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. However, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.

In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.

• Inter remain in tight pursuit for the Italian title.
• Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
• The battle for first continues with several clubs competing.