Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite 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 occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances was decisive in earning three points.
Other European Matches
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 goal five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ scoring 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. However, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to return to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The title race continues with multiple clubs competing.
