Lautaro Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league title race in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to score even with pressure was decisive in securing three points.
Additional 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 goal five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning performance.
- The title race continues with several clubs in the mix.
