Lautaro Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly involved in the Italian league championship battle despite a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit in third position in the table with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to score even with difficult circumstances was crucial in earning three points.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, the Basque side mounted 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 half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into 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 recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams in the mix.
