Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Frontrunners

Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace 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 performance.

Standings Overview

Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.

Match Summary

Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.

The team’s ability to convert even with pressure proved crucial in securing three points.

Additional Continental Action

Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say late in added time.

Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.

• Inter remain in close pursuit for the Serie A title.
• Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
• The title race continues with multiple teams in the mix.