Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the away side firmly engaged in the Serie A championship battle in spite of a less than convincing performance.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points, level with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European defeat at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s ability to score even with pressure was decisive in securing the victory.
Additional Continental Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad mounted a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive display.
- The title race goes on with multiple clubs competing.
