Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Serie A title race despite a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances proved crucial in earning the victory.
Other Continental Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour 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 delivered the last word late in added time.
In the late La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive display.
- The title race goes on with several teams in the mix.
