Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
League Table Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was crucial in earning 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 late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The title race continues with several teams in the mix.
