Late Mallorca blow leaves Real Madrid title hopes fading

Real Madrid suffered another damaging setback in the La Liga title race after conceding a late goal in a 2-1 defeat to RCD Mallorca.

The result leaves Madrid in a difficult position, with rivals Barcelona now holding the chance to open a seven-point lead at the top of the table.

Mallorca punish Madrid’s defensive lapses

Despite early pressure from Mallorca, Real Madrid created the first clear openings. Kylian Mbappé tested goalkeeper Leo Román with a powerful effort, before Arda Güler also went close.

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.