In a nail-biting La Liga showdown, Real Madrid, the current table-toppers, carved out a hard-fought victory against Mallorca, clinching the three points with Antonio Rudiger’s decisive late header. Mallorca rattled the woodwork twice, with Antonio Sanchez’s header kissing the crossbar and Samu Costa’s attempt finding the post.
The match was a rollercoaster of missed opportunities for Mallorca, ultimately costing them dearly. Rudiger’s expertly timed header off Luka Modric’s corner in the 78th minute extended Real Madrid’s impressive unbeaten streak to 18 games across all competitions.
Girona’s Late Drama: Real Madrid’s Temporary Breather
Real Madrid’s temporary three-point lead at the summit was short-lived as Girona, sitting closely behind in the standings, orchestrated a late-game spectacle against third-placed Atletico Madrid. Ivan Martin’s 91st-minute winner propelled Girona to a thrilling 4-3 victory, leveling the points with Real Madrid at 48 from 19 matches. The top spot remains in Real’s grasp, courtesy of a superior goal difference.
Ancelotti’s Commitment and Rudiger’s Redemption
Amidst the on-field drama, Real Madrid received a boost off the pitch as manager Carlo Ancelotti put an end to speculations, extending his contract until at least 2026. The game also marked the return of Vinicius Jr after a two-month hiatus due to a hamstring injury. Despite the Brazilian’s attempts, Mallorca, positioned 14th in the league, posed a serious threat, hitting the framework twice.
In the latter stages of the game, Brahim Diaz’s missed opportunity from close range had hearts pounding, but Rudiger’s late heroics spared any blushes. This crucial win solidifies Real Madrid’s position at the pinnacle of La Liga, showcasing their resilience and determination in the face of spirited opposition.
