Real Madrid thwarted Barcelona’s title celebrations with a thrilling 2-1 victory at the Bernabéu. Discover the match highlights and key moments here.
Introduction:
The Santiago Bernabéu witnessed a dramatic night as Real Madrid clawed back from an early deficit to edge Mallorca 2-1, courtesy of a stoppage-time winner from debutant Jacobo Ramón. The result kept Barcelona’s La Liga title celebrations on hold for at least another day and offered a poignant moment of pride for a depleted Madrid side fighting to the very end. See also: Barcelona Clinch 2024/25 La Liga Title

Mallorca Strike First: Valjent’s Early Shock
The match began with a sense of tension both on the pitch and in the stands, as Madrid’s injury-ravaged squad faced a Mallorca side eager to play spoiler. In the 11th minute, Mallorca stunned the half-empty Bernabéu when defender Martin Valjent found space inside the box and rifled an angled shot past Thibaut Courtois. The early goal put Real on the back foot and injected belief into the visitors, who then set about defending their lead with discipline and resilience.

Real Madrid’s Frustration: Román’s Heroics and Missed Chances
Despite conceding early, Real Madrid dominated possession (over 72%) and launched wave after wave of attack. However, the hosts were repeatedly denied by Mallorca’s inspired goalkeeper Leo Román, who produced a remarkable 11 saves on the night. Madrid’s relentless pressure yielded 39 attempts on goal and a staggering 26 corners, but a combination of wasteful finishing and Román’s brilliance kept the deficit intact.

Injuries forced Carlo Ancelotti to field a makeshift lineup, with 12 first-team players unavailable. The likes of Arda Güler and Endrick were thrust into attacking roles, while Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham shouldered the creative burden. Still, Madrid’s efforts appeared destined to fall short as frustration mounted and time ticked away.

Mbappé Levels: A Moment of Individual Brilliance
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 68th minute. Kylian Mbappé, who has been Madrid’s talisman all season, collected the ball on the edge of the box, weaved past two defenders, and slotted home a composed finish to level the scores. It was Mbappé’s 28th league goal of the campaign, extending his lead in the Golden Boot race and reigniting Madrid’s hopes of a late turnaround.

With the equalizer, the Bernabéu roared to life, sensing that the improbable was possible. Mallorca, meanwhile, dropped deeper, content to absorb pressure and play for a point that would have mathematically handed Barcelona the title.

Stoppage-Time Drama: Jacobo Ramón’s Dream Debut
As the match entered five minutes of added time, Real Madrid threw everything forward. The decisive moment came in the 95th minute, when Mallorca failed to clear a cross from inside their box. The ball fell to Jacobo Ramón, making his first league start for Madrid. The 22-year-old center-back showed composure beyond his years, volleying the ball into the net and sending the home crowd into delirium.

Ramón’s goal was not just a personal milestone but a symbolic act of defiance from a Madrid side refusing to surrender the title without a fight. “This is inexplicable. I’ve dreamed about it all my life. This shirt is until the end, and there is no better way to score my first goal than like this,” Ramón told Real Madrid TV after the match.

Tactical Analysis: Madrid’s Relentless Attack vs. Mallorca’s Defensive Wall
Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical approach was dictated by necessity as much as design. With a depleted squad, Madrid relied on their attacking stars and the energy of young debutants. The team’s approach was direct and aggressive, with full-backs pushing high and midfielders flooding the box. Mbappé and Bellingham were central to every move, while Güler and Endrick provided flashes of creativity.
Mallorca, under Javier Aguirre, executed a disciplined defensive plan, often deploying a five-man backline and crowding the midfield. Their counter-attacking threat was evident in the first half, but as the match wore on, they were forced into a rearguard action, relying on Román’s heroics to keep them in the contest.
The Stakes: Title Race and Pride
For Real Madrid, the win was about more than just three points. With Barcelona poised to clinch the title, Madrid’s mission was simple: delay the celebrations and show the spirit that has defined the club for generations. The victory keeps their slim title hopes mathematically alive, though Barcelona remain four points clear with a game in hand and can secure the championship by beating Espanyol.
For Mallorca, the defeat was a bitter pill after a valiant defensive effort. Still, their performance at the Bernabéu, especially Román’s display, offered positives as they continue to fight for a top-half finish and potential European qualification.
Key Performers
Jacobo Ramón: The unlikely hero, scoring the winner on his first league start and embodying Madrid’s never-say-die attitude.
Kylian Mbappé: A constant threat, scoring his 28th league goal and leading the Golden Boot race.
Leo Román: Mallorca’s goalkeeper was outstanding, making 11 saves and almost single-handedly earning his side a point.
Martin Valjent: Gave Mallorca an early lead with a well-taken goal and marshaled the defense under relentless pressure.
Looking Ahead: Ancelotti’s Farewell and Madrid’s Transition
This match also marked one of the final home games for Carlo Ancelotti, who will depart to coach Brazil at season’s end. The Italian’s tenure has been defined by silverware and memorable comebacks, and this victory was a fitting tribute to his legacy of resilience and tactical adaptability.
For Madrid, the focus now shifts to finishing the season on a high and preparing for a summer of transition, with new faces expected to take on greater responsibility as the club seeks to reclaim domestic and European supremacy.
Conclusion: Madrid’s Spirit Shines Through
Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Mallorca was a testament to their enduring spirit and refusal to give up, even when the odds are stacked against them. Jacobo Ramón’s stoppage-time winner delayed Barcelona’s title party and gave the Bernabéu faithful a night to remember. While the title may ultimately head to Catalonia, Madrid’s fight ensures the race is not over until the final whistle.