Los Blancos Keep La Liga Race Alive
Real Madrid pulled off a stunning 2-1 comeback victory over Real Mallorca on Wednesday night at the Santiago Bernabéu, postponing Barcelona’s potential La Liga title celebrations by at least another day.
The win narrows the gap at the top of the table to just four points, ahead of Barcelona’s clash with Espanyol on Thursday, where a victory would still secure their 28th league title.
Valjent’s Early Goal Shocks the Bernabéu
Real Madrid were on the back foot early after Martin Valjent struck in the 11th minute. Unmarked on the right side of the box, the Mallorca defender fired past Thibaut Courtois, who was making his 200th La Liga appearance, to give the visitors a surprise lead.
Madrid Respond with Mbappé Brilliance and Jacobo Heroics
Despite being depleted by injuries — missing key players like Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo Goes — Madrid showed resilience. Kylian Mbappé eventually equalised in the 68th minute with a moment of individual brilliance, dodging three defenders and slotting home his 40th goal of the season.
As the game edged into stoppage time, 20-year-old defender Jacobo Ramon emerged as the hero, lobbing a loose ball over goalkeeper Leo Roman in the 95th minute to seal the win.
“The team played very well, it fought a lot, played with a lot of intensity, and it was a totally deserved victory,” said coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Ancelotti Praises Spirit Amid Injuries
In what is his final season with Real Madrid before taking over the Brazilian national team, Ancelotti lauded his team’s response to adversity.
“Having 12 players injured is very strange, but we were able to overcome it with attitude and unity,” he added.
Madrid’s young talents stepped up, including Endrick, who forced an early save, and Arda Güler, who almost netted with a powerful drive in the second half.
Mallorca’s Fight for Europe Continues
Despite the loss, ninth-placed Mallorca showed spirit in their push for European football for the first time since 2004. Goalkeeper Leo Roman was outstanding, making key saves from Bellingham, Mbappé, Valverde, and Güler.
He also denied Mateu Morey a golden chance late in the second half, while defender Valjent cleared an Mbappé shot off the line.
“Leo Roman had a great game,” said Courtois.
“Jacobo was confident and scored that goal. It’s great for the academy — when they’re called upon, they deliver.”
Barcelona Await Title Decider
With Real Madrid temporarily delaying the inevitable, all eyes now turn to Barcelona’s match against Espanyol, where a win would confirm them as La Liga champions.
Madrid’s performance — despite injuries, pressure, and poor recent form — shows their determination to end the season with pride, even if the title ultimately slips away.
