Lautaro Martínez Double Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, 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 plenty of chances, 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 attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score despite pressure proved crucial in earning three points.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals 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 equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to return to the top above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning display.
- The title race goes on with multiple teams competing.
