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 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Serie A title race despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score despite pressure was crucial in earning three points.
Additional Continental Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the last word deep into stoppage time.
In the late Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race continues with multiple clubs in the mix.
