Lautaro Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring 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 now are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was decisive in securing the victory.
Other European Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word late in stoppage time.
Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
