Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much involved in the Serie A championship battle despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s capacity to convert even with pressure was decisive in earning three points.
Other European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly 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 had the final say deep into added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs competing.
