Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly involved in the Italian league championship battle in spite of a less than convincing display.
Standings Update
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert despite difficult circumstances was crucial in earning the victory.
Additional European Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute 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 Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a win to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close contention for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with several teams in the mix.
