Martínez Double Ensures Inter on Tail of Leaders

Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly involved in the Italian league championship battle despite a somewhat shaky display.

League Table Update

Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the table with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.

Match Summary

Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.

Inter’s capacity to convert despite pressure was crucial in securing the victory.

Other Continental Action

In Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring 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 equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.

In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.

• Inter remain in close contention for the Italian title.
• Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
• The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.