Barcelona 1-0 RCD Mallorca: Barca go seven points with win over Mallorca

Barcelona maintained their unbeaten streak in LaLiga, extending it to 14 matches (12 wins, 2 draws) with a 1-0 victory over RCD Mallorca at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, further solidifying their position at the top of the league table.

The hosts entered this match following a thrilling comeback win against Celta Vigo, where they netted three goals in the last 30 minutes to secure a 4-3 victory.

This result had already given them a five-point lead in the title race, and a win in this match would provide them with a significant advantage, despite having played one more game.

Mallorca, on the other hand, is actively pursuing a European qualification spot and demonstrated their resilience throughout the season by keeping the score level at halftime. Barcelona, however, was persistent in their attempts to score.

Coach Hansi Flick made several changes from the previous match against Vigo, resting key players like Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, yet the team still generated numerous scoring opportunities.

The absence of the duo's finishing touch was evident, as Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, and Ansu Fati all failed to convert their chances. Although Torres, Yamal, and Dani Olmo managed to test goalkeeper Leo Roman, he successfully thwarted their efforts, and a low shot from Gavi was deflected onto the post by Jose Copete.

Mallorca struggled to escape their defensive half but did manage to find the net through Mateo Jaume, only for the goal to be disallowed due to a narrow offside.

After a goalless first half, Barcelona needed less than a minute into the second half to score, with Olmo delivering a composed finish that finally beat Roman, marking his ninth LaLiga goal in just 11 appearances this season.

At first, Flick's team seemed poised to net a second goal as Mallorca's goalkeeper denied Fati and Yamal's attempt went over the bar. Nevertheless, Antonio Raíllo's header, which narrowly missed the post, served as a stark reminder for the home side to remain vigilant.

Ultimately, Mallorca failed to maintain any offensive pressure, allowing Barcelona to secure a vital three points as they managed the remainder of the match.

Barcelona will now shift their focus from LaLiga to prepare for the Copa Del Rey final against Real Madrid on Saturday, while Mallorca is set to face struggling Girona next Monday.

Currently, Mallorca sits in seventh place, holding a UEFA Conference League qualification spot, but they could drop to 11th by the end of the weekend if other results do not favor them.