Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders

Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing display.

League Table Update

Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.

Match Recap

Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.

Inter’s ability to score even with pressure proved decisive in securing three points.

Other European Matches

Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute 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 delivered the last word late in stoppage time.

Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.

• The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Serie A crown.
• Martínez demonstrated his worth with a match-winning display.
• The battle for first continues with several teams competing.