Lautaro Martínez Double Keeps Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing performance.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to score even with pressure was crucial in earning the victory.
Additional Continental Action
In Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute 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 stoppage time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several clubs competing.
