Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side very much involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
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 made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to score even with difficult circumstances was decisive in earning three points.
Other European Action
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 stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals 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. However, Moleiro had the last word deep into added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
