Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the table with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances was crucial in earning three points.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring 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 leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word deep into stoppage time.
In the late Spanish match, 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 stay in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple teams competing.
