Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the standings with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from point-blank seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances was decisive in earning three points.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ 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 leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race continues with several teams competing.