Lautaro Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan on Tail of Leaders

Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to secure his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, keeping the away side very much engaged in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.

Standings Update

Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit in third position in the standings with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind leaders Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.

Match Summary

Inter arrived in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were forced to fight throughout by promoted Pisa. The home team generated numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the top of the net. The attacker then tapped in from point-blank seven minutes from time.

Inter’s ability to convert even with difficult circumstances was decisive in earning the victory.

Other European Matches

Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s scoring came from Ayoze Pérez shortly 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 delivered the final say late in stoppage time.

Later on Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.

• The Nerazzurri remain in tight pursuit for the Italian title.
• Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning performance.
• The title race continues with multiple teams in the mix.