Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors firmly involved in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Overview
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after suffering a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range seven minutes from time.
The team’s capacity to convert despite pressure was crucial in earning the victory.
Additional European Action
In Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the last word late in added time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the top ahead of Barcelona, who recorded a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- The Nerazzurri remain in close pursuit for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive display.
- The battle for first goes on with several teams in the mix.
