Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Overview
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then tapped in from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to score despite pressure was crucial in securing three points.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize 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 reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say late in added time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win 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 proved his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs competing.
