Lautaro Martínez Double Keeps Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to score despite difficult circumstances proved crucial in earning the victory.
Other European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into stoppage 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 late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams in the mix.
