Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing performance.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of 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 European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to score despite pressure was decisive in earning three points.
Additional European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ 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 equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Serie A title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive performance.
- The title race goes on with several teams in the mix.
