Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Serie A title race despite a less than convincing performance.
League Table Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the table with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Other European Action
In Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal 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 quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say late in stoppage time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs competing.