Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly involved in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking 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 made to battle throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances proved crucial in securing three points.
Other European Action
In Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into stoppage time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
