Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much involved in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the standings with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was crucial in earning three points.
Other European Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic 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 shortly 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 final say late in added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning display.
- The title race goes on with multiple teams in the mix.
