Lautaro Martínez Double Ensures Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side very much involved in the Serie A championship battle despite a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then finished from close range seven minutes from time.
Inter’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances proved crucial in securing three points.
Other European Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into stoppage 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 added time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning performance.
- The title race continues with several teams competing.
