Real Madrid’s highly anticipated LaLiga opener, featuring the debut of French superstar Kylian Mbappe, ended in frustration as a determined Real Mallorca side held the reigning champions to a 1-1 draw. Despite Madrid’s early lead and star-studded lineup, Mallorca’s resilience and tactical discipline ensured they left Son Moix Stadium with a well-earned point.
A Promising Start for Madrid
Real Madrid entered the match at Son Moix Stadium with confidence, having secured the UEFA Super Cup just days earlier. Carlo Ancelotti, riding high on that victory, opted to field the same starting lineup that had conquered Atalanta. This included a formidable attacking trio of Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo Goes, supported by Jude Bellingham in midfield.
The match began with Madrid asserting their dominance early on. Their quick, fluid play saw them take the lead in the opening minutes. Vinicius Junior, with his trademark flair, made a sharp run down the left flank before playing a perfectly weighted ball back to Rodrygo. The young Brazilian forward showed his class by curling a precise shot into the far corner of the net, leaving Greif with no chance. It was a goal that showcased the synergy between the Brazilian duo and set the tone for what many expected to be a comfortable Madrid victory.
Mbappe’s Struggles and Mallorca’s Resilience
As the game progressed, it became clear that Mallorca was not going to roll over. Under new coach Jagoba Arrasate, the Copa del Rey runners-up were well-organized and determined to make life difficult for the champions. Despite Madrid’s early lead, Mallorca’s defense tightened up, closing down spaces and making it difficult for Los Blancos to create clear-cut chances.
Mbappe, eager to make an impact on his league debut, found himself increasingly frustrated. The French superstar had several opportunities to score, but each time he was met with a resolute defense or an inspired Greif. The Mallorca goalkeeper was in exceptional form, making a series of crucial saves to keep his team in the game. Whether it was tipping away a Rodrygo effort or denying Mbappe at close range, Greif was a wall that Madrid simply couldn’t breach.
As Madrid continued to press, looking to extend their lead, Mallorca remained disciplined, sticking to their game plan. Arrasate’s side focused on shutting down the spaces that Madrid’s attackers thrive in, particularly targeting Mbappe, whose pace and skill posed a constant threat. Despite the pressure, Mallorca held firm, showing the kind of grit and determination that has become a hallmark of underdog teams playing against the giants of Spanish football.
Muriqi’s Equalizer: A Turning Point
Mallorca’s resilience was rewarded early in the second half. After weathering Madrid’s attacks, the hosts began to grow in confidence, pushing forward with greater intent. Their efforts paid off in the 58th minute when they won a corner, providing a golden opportunity to test Madrid’s defense.
Dani Rodriguez delivered a well-placed corner into the box, where Vedat Muriqi, Mallorca’s towering Kosovo striker, was waiting. Muriqi, known for his aerial prowess, outjumped his marker and powered a header past Thibaut Courtois, leveling the score and sending the home crowd into a frenzy. It was a moment of sheer determination and physicality, perfectly executed, and a reminder of Mallorca’s threat from set-pieces.
The equalizer shocked Real Madrid and energized Mallorca, who began to believe that they could snatch a famous victory. The hosts, buoyed by the goal, continued to press forward, and for a brief period, it seemed that they might just pull off an upset.
Madrid’s Desperate Search for a Winner
As the match entered its final stages, Real Madrid intensified their efforts to find a winner. Ancelotti made tactical adjustments, bringing on veteran midfielder Luka Modric to inject creativity and experience into the side. The move was aimed at breaking down Mallorca’s well-drilled defense and creating more opportunities for the front three.
Mbappe, still searching for his debut goal, came close on several occasions. However, Greif remained unbeatable, making another crucial save at his near post and then watching as Johan Mojica cleared the danger before Rodrygo could pounce on the rebound. The frustration on Mbappe’s face was evident as each chance went begging.
Madrid’s desperation grew as time ticked away, but Mallorca, sensing a valuable point within their grasp, dug deep to hold on. The game reached a dramatic climax in stoppage time when Ferland Mendy was sent off for a reckless high challenge on Muriqi. The red card further hampered Madrid’s hopes of finding a late winner, and with their numbers reduced, the visitors had to settle for a draw.
A Disappointing Start for Madrid, But a Promising One for Mallorca
The final whistle blew to confirm a 1-1 draw, a result that left Real Madrid frustrated and Kylian Mbappe’s LaLiga debut unfulfilled. For Mallorca, however, the draw felt like a victory. They had not only held the champions but had also demonstrated their ability to compete with the best, a promising sign for the season ahead.
For Mbappe and Real Madrid, this match served as a reminder that even the most star-studded lineups can be halted by resilience and determination. As they move forward in their title defense, Madrid will need to find ways to break down stubborn defenses like Mallorca’s, especially if they hope to retain their crown.
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