Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Other European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into stoppage time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
