Lautaro Martínez Double Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Italian league title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-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 difficult circumstances proved crucial in securing three points.
Other European Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just 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. However, Moleiro had the final say late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to return to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs in the mix.
