Lautaro Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances proved crucial in securing three points.
Other European Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring 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. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say late in added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The title race continues with several teams in the mix.