Lautaro Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the table with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with pressure was crucial in securing the victory.
Additional European Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to return to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The title race continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
