Lautaro Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side very much involved in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock 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.
The team’s ability to score despite pressure was decisive in securing the victory.
Other European Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute 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 last word late in stoppage time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in tight contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The title race continues with several teams competing.
