Barcelona Continues Unbeaten Run With Narrow Victory Over Mallorca‎

‎FC Barcelona extended their remarkable unbeaten run in La Liga to 14 matches at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory against RCD Mallorca.

‎Game Laced with Anticipation

‎Barcelona approached this match following a thrilling comeback victory over Celta Vigo, where they scored three times in the final 30 minutes to clinch a dramatic 4-3 win.

‎This latest success had moved them five points clear in the title race, and they were keen to build on that momentum. A win against Mallorca would provide a significant buffer at the top of the standings, albeit having played one game more than their closest rivals.

‎Mallorca, meanwhile, entered the match with aspirations of securing a European spot. Having demonstrated commendable grit and tenacity throughout their campaign, they were focused on making a mark against the league leaders, eager to test their mettle on this grand stage.

‎Missed Opportunities

‎From the opening whistle, Barcelona seized control of the game, creating a plethora of chances. Despite head coach Hansi Flick rotating the squad and resting key players like Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, the Blaugrana’s offensive line remained potent.

‎The first half, however, saw a series of squandered opportunities. Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, and Ansu Fati all failed to convert quality chances, with several shots going wide or directly into the hands of Mallorca’s goalkeeper, Leo Román.

‎In a rare moment of excitement for the visitors, Mateo Jaume found the back of the net, only to have his goal disallowed for a narrow offside, emphasizing the fine margins that could have turned the tide for Mallorca.

‎The Catalans maintained the lion’s share of possession, demonstrating their attacking intent, but the scoreboard remained locked at 0-0 as the teams retreated for halftime.

‎Olmo’s Composure Seals the Deal

‎The second half began with the urgency from Barcelona that was all too evident. Just under a minute after the restart, Dani Olmo broke the deadlock with a composed finish that finally breached Mallorca’s resilient defense.

‎Scoring his ninth La Liga goal in just 11 starts this season, Olmo’s strike was a demonstration of clinical precision that the home side had missed in the first half.

‎With the lead established, Barcelona looked to increase their advantage. Ansu Fati came agonizingly close, while Yamal saw a promising shot sail over the bar.

‎However, Mallorca was not without its moments of danger; Antonio Raíllo’s header skimming narrowly wide served as a warning for the hosts not to become complacent.

‎Despite maintaining a degree of threat, Mallorca struggled to generate sustained pressure against a Barcelona side that expertly managed the game in the latter stages.

‎The Blaugrana demonstrated their experience, comfortably seeing out the remaining minutes to secure a vital three points.

‎Looking Ahead: Cup Final and European Ambitions

‎This victory is a significant step for Barcelona as they shift their focus to the upcoming Copa del Rey final against their arch-rivals Real Madrid, where they will seek to add another trophy to their collection.

‎For Mallorca, currently perched in seventh place occupying the crucial UEFA Conference League qualification spot they face a challenging away match against struggling Girona next Monday.

‎However, with fluctuating results, they could find themselves slipping as low as 11th if fortunes turn against them.