Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite a somewhat shaky display.
League Table Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the standings with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score even with difficult circumstances proved crucial in earning three points.
Additional Continental Action
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike 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 soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs in the mix.
