Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert even with pressure was decisive in earning three points.
Other European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour 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. However, Moleiro delivered the final say late in added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The title race goes on with several clubs competing.
