Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Serie A championship battle despite a less than convincing performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with pressure was crucial in earning the victory.
Additional Continental 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 goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing 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 tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs competing.
