Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly involved in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the standings with 27 points, level with second-placed Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances proved decisive in earning three points.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez just 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. Yet, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple teams competing.
