Lautaro Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score despite pressure proved decisive in securing the victory.
Other European Matches
In Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say late in stoppage time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a victory to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with several teams competing.
