Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side very much involved in the Serie A title race in spite of a less than convincing performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan recently, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a efficient Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to convert despite difficult circumstances was decisive in earning the victory.
Additional Continental Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage 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 had the final say deep into added time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to return to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in close contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a match-winning display.
- The battle for first continues with several clubs in the mix.
