Lautaro Martínez Double Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the standings with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s ability to convert even with pressure was crucial in earning three points.
Additional Continental Action
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to return to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive display.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple teams in the mix.
