Lautaro Martínez Double Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much engaged in the Serie A title race in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-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 proved decisive in earning the victory.
Other Continental Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word deep into stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive performance.
- The title race goes on with several teams in the mix.
