Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the standings with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to convert despite pressure was crucial in earning the victory.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose 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 pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in tight contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with several teams in the mix.
