Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter Milan in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much 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 standings with 27 points total, tied with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank seven minutes from time.
Inter’s ability to convert despite pressure proved crucial in earning three points.
Other Continental Matches
In Spain, Real Sociedad staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word 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 pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams competing.