Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders

Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged 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 standings with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.

Game Summary

Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals 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 home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.

The team’s capacity to convert even with pressure was decisive in earning the victory.

Additional European Matches

Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour 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 had the final say deep into stoppage time.

Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.

• The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Italian title.
• Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
• The title race goes on with multiple clubs in the mix.