Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Other Continental Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to return to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The title race continues with several clubs competing.
