Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders

Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing performance.

League Table Update

Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.

Match Recap

Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.

The team’s capacity to score even with pressure was crucial in securing three points.

Other European Action

Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s scoring 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 leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say late in stoppage time.

In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.