Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side very much involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert despite pressure proved decisive in securing the victory.
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute 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 delivered the last word late in stoppage 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 win over Alavés on Saturday.
