Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders

Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.

League Table Update

Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the table with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.

Game Recap

Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.

The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances proved crucial in earning three points.

Additional Continental Action

Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic fightback 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 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. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.

Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.

• Inter stay in close contention for the Italian title.
• Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive performance.
• The title race continues with several teams in the mix.