Kylian Mbappe’s highly anticipated La Liga debut for Real Madrid ended in frustration as a determined Real Mallorca managed to secure a 1-1 draw in their opening title defense on Sunday.
The French star was unable to make an impact as Mallorca’s goalkeeper, Dominik Greif, thwarted his efforts. After Rodrygo Goes put Madrid ahead early, Mallorca equalized in the second half with a powerful header from Vedat Muriqi.
Despite Madrid’s star-studded lineup, including Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo, the team struggled to break down Mallorca’s defense. Mallorca came close to clinching a win in the dying moments at Son Moix Stadium.
The match saw Real Madrid defender Ferland Mendy receive a red card in stoppage time for a high challenge on Muriqi.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti fielded the same starting XI that triumphed over Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday, featuring Jude Bellingham in midfield behind the attacking trio of Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo.
Mallorca’s coach, Jagoba Arrasate, faced a formidable challenge in his first match at the helm of the Copa del Rey runners-up, especially against the reigning champions bolstered by Mbappe’s arrival. Nevertheless, his team rose to the occasion and secured a valuable point.
Madrid, who were nearly unbeatable last season, began the game strongly. They took the lead through a slick combination between their Brazilian forwards: Vinicius rolled the ball back for Rodrygo, who curled a shot into the far corner, out of Greif’s reach.
Greif made a crucial save from another Rodrygo attempt, and Mbappe sent a shot wide as Madrid struggled to add to their lead.
Arrasate’s tactical adjustments helped Mallorca stay competitive, and they equalized early in the second half when Muriqi powered a header past Madrid’s defense from Dani Rodriguez’s corner.
Mbappe had another chance saved by Greif, and Vinicius fired over the bar as Madrid pushed to regain the lead. Ancelotti introduced veteran Luka Modric, who will turn 39 in September, in place of Aurelien Tchouameni, hoping to add more creativity against Mallorca’s resolute defense.
Mbappe came close again, but Greif denied him once more, and Johan Mojica cleared the rebound before Rodrygo could capitalize.
In the end, Mallorca held firm and left Mbappe and Madrid disappointed on his La Liga debut.
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