Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was crucial in securing three points.
Other European Action
In Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring 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 leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into added time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs in the mix.
