Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances proved crucial in earning the victory.
Other European Matches
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute 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 had the final say late in stoppage time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The title race goes on with several teams competing.
