Lautaro Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Serie A championship battle despite a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances proved decisive in securing three points.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word late in added time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in tight contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with several teams in the mix.
