Lautaro Martínez Brace Ensures Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a second-half double to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the visitors firmly engaged in the Italian league title race despite a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the table with 27 points total, tied 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 arrived in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after suffering a loss to rivals by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created numerous opportunities, but a clinical 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 close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to score despite difficult circumstances was decisive in earning the victory.
Other Continental Action
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the last word late in added time.
In the late Spanish 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 Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri remain in tight contention for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his value with a decisive display.
- The title race continues with several clubs competing.
