Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly involved in the Italian league title race in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
League Table Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed third in the table with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert even with pressure proved decisive in securing the victory.
Other European Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say deep into added time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The title race continues with multiple teams in the mix.
