Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to convert even with pressure proved crucial in earning the victory.
Other Continental Matches
In Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike 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 quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter stay in tight pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.
