Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Leaders

Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a somewhat shaky display.

Standings Update

Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.

Game Summary

Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.

The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was crucial in securing the victory.

Other Continental Action

Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.

In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to return to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.

• Inter stay in tight contention for the Serie A title.
• Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive performance.
• The title race continues with several teams in the mix.