Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half double to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much involved in the Italian league championship battle despite a less than convincing performance.
League Table Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert despite pressure was decisive in securing the victory.
Other Continental Action
In Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say late in added time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive display.
- The title race goes on with several clubs in the mix.
