Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite a somewhat shaky display.
Standings Update
Under Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the standings with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom spot with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter arrived in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League loss 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 Argentinian Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
Inter’s capacity to score even with difficult circumstances proved decisive in earning three points.
Other European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour 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 late in added time.
Later on La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to return to the summit above Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Italian title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive display.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs in the mix.
