Madrid, Spain — Real Madrid needed to prevent FC Barcelona from clinching the LaLiga title early as they faced Mallorca at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday evening. Following a recent 4-3 defeat to Barcelona in El Clásico, Carlo Ancelotti‘s squad went into the match seven points behind their rivals.
The encounter began with a shock for Madrid, as Mallorca’s Martin Valjent scored an early goal in the 11th minute, putting the visitors ahead. Despite the setback, Real Madrid responded fiercely, dominating possession and creating multiple chances, but struggled to convert their efforts into goals.
Jude Bellingham and Luka Modric both threatened the Mallorca goal, but their shots were expertly saved by Mallorca’s goalkeeper Leo Roman. Mallorca defended resolutely, holding onto their 1-0 lead into the second half.
In the 68th minute, Kylian Mbappé, who was a bright spot for Madrid throughout the match, finally broke through Mallorca’s defenses with a stunning shot from the center of the box, leveling the score at 1-1. This goal energized the home crowd, and Madrid pressed hard for the win.
Immediately after the equalizer, Mallorca nearly went back in front, but Thibaut Courtois made a crucial one-on-one save against Mateu Morey. Madrid kept pushing, but several efforts, including a close-range shot from Mbappé, were blocked or saved as the tension mounted.
As stoppage time approached, Real Madrid secured their 26th corner of the match. A chaotic sequence ensued after the initial delivery was cleared, and Jacobo Ramón managed to find the ball inside the box to score in the 95th minute, giving Madrid a 2-1 lead. The Santiago Bernabeu erupted in jubilation.
With this victory, Madrid remains in contention, reducing the gap to four points behind Barcelona. However, Barcelona still needs just one win from their remaining matches to secure the title. Ancelotti’s side must keep pushing, especially with the knowledge that their title hopes may ride on their performance in the final six games of the season.
“Every match counts as we strive to keep our hopes alive in LaLiga,” Ramón said after the match. “We showed heart and determination today, and we must carry this momentum forward.”
Real Madrid’s remaining fixtures are crucial as they continue their chase. Meanwhile, the pressure mounts on Barcelona, who have been solid all season but face challenges as they approach the finish line.
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