Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated 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 forward then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score despite pressure was decisive in securing three points.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word late in added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs in the mix.