Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much involved in the Italian league title race in spite of a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to score despite difficult circumstances proved decisive in securing three points.
Other European Matches
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal 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 reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a win to return to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with multiple clubs in the mix.