Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Italian league title race in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert even with pressure proved decisive in earning three points.
Other Continental Matches
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback 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 soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the last word late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in tight pursuit for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning performance.
- The title race goes on with multiple clubs competing.
