Real Madrid vs Mallorca Prediction & Match Preview
The new year dawns bright for Real Madrid, who stand atop La Liga alongside Girona but have the first chance to pull ahead when they host Mallorca on Wednesday evening. Carlo Ancelotti’s men head into Matchday No. 19 boasting an impressive league record: 14 wins, 3 draws, and just 1 loss, and they further solidify their dominance with the best defensive record in the division (a mere 11 goals conceded).
Their Bernabéu fortress has witnessed just four goals leak past Courtois in eight league outings, and the latest chapter in their defensive masterclass was a dramatic late win at Alaves, achieved even after Nacho Fernandez’s second-half dismissal.
Despite being strong favorites according to the bookies, Los Blancos can’t afford complacency. Mallorca arrive on the back of a five-game unbeaten streak across all competitions, including three wins and a draw in their last four La Liga outings. Their 3-2 triumph over Osasuna showcased their attacking prowess, and this surge in form has propelled Javier Aguirre’s men to a comfortable 14th place, five points clear of the relegation zone.
Interestingly, Mallorca upset the Bernabéu apple cart earlier this year, shocking Real Madrid 1-0 in February. However, history favors the hosts, who boast 14 wins, 1 draw, and 5 defeats in their last 20 home encounters with Mallorca. Additionally, Los Blancos have found joy in attack against their Balearic Island rivals, netting at least three goals in three of their previous four matchups.
Wednesday’s clash promises to be an intriguing battle between Real Madrid’s defensive solidity and Mallorca’s resurgent attacking form. Can Ancelotti’s men extend their lead or will Mallorca continue their climb up the table with another Bernabéu upset? Buckle up for a thrilling encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu!
Prediction:
While Mallorca’s recent form and past upset at the Bernabéu should serve as a warning for Real Madrid, Los Blancos are expected to claim a hard-fought victory. Their superior defensive record and home advantage, coupled with the attacking brilliance of Vinicius Jr. and Karim Benzema, should prove too much for the visitors to handle. Expect a tight affair, but Ancelotti’s men are likely to edge it by a score of 2-1, extending their lead at the top of La Liga.
