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Real Madrid’s hopes in the La Liga title chase took a significant hit as they succumbed to a late goal, resulting in a 2-1 defeat at the hands of RCD Mallorca.
This setback has left Madrid in a precarious position, as their fierce competitors, Barcelona, now have the opportunity to extend their lead to seven points at the summit of the table.
Although Mallorca applied early pressure, it was Real Madrid who carved out the initial scoring opportunities. Kylian Mbappé forced a save from Mallorca’s goalkeeper, Leo Román, with a powerful shot, and Arda Güler came close to finding the net as well.
Mallorca punish Madrid’s defensive lapses
Yet, it was Mallorca who broke the deadlock. A well-delivered cross from the right flank found Manu Morlanes, who was left unattended in the box. The midfielder made no mistake, slotting the ball into the bottom corner with composure.
However, it was Mallorca who struck first. A cross from the right found Manu Morlanes unmarked inside the box, and the midfielder calmly finished into the bottom corner.
The goal exposed the defensive uncertainty that has increasingly undermined Madrid in recent weeks.
Militão rescues hope before Muriqi strikes
Manager Álvaro Arbeloa responded by introducing Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior in the second half, while defender Éder Militão made his return after a lengthy injury absence.
Madrid struggled to break down a disciplined Mallorca side, but Militão appeared to have salvaged a point when he powered a header into the top corner in the 88th minute.
Yet the visitors switched off again in stoppage time. Vedat Muriqi collected the ball in the area and fired past the goalkeeper to hand Mallorca a dramatic victory.
Barcelona can extend advantage
The defeat increases the pressure on Real Madrid ahead of the closing weeks of the campaign. If Barcelona defeat Atlético Madrid, the Catalans will move seven points clear.
For Madrid, the margin for error has now disappeared.