RCD Mallorca fell to a 2-1 defeat against Real Betis at the Estadi Mallorca Son Moix on Saturday. The home side controlled possession and created chances, but two first-half counter-attacking goals from the visitors proved decisive.
Betis took the lead in the 18th minute. Following a rapid transition, Antony's shot was parried by Leo Román and the rebound fell to Ez Abde, who finished with a precise volley. The visitors' advantage was doubled in first-half stoppage time, when Cédric Bakambu finished another break to make it 0-2.
Mallorca emerged with greater intensity after the break. Their response came in the 66th minute, as Vedat Muriqi met a Sergi Darder cross with a first-time strike into the top corner. It was a spectacular goal that reignited hope in Son Moix. Jan Virgili, very active, came close to an equaliser with a header that clipped the post.
Despite their dominance and constant pressure in the closing minutes, Javier Aguirre's team could not find a leveller. Betis defended in an organised manner and managed the game effectively to see out the result. The defeat leaves Mallorca with important points still to play for in the final stretch of the season.
Changes and lineups
Javier Aguirre made several changes at halftime and during the second period in search of a comeback. Manu Morlanes and Luvumbo came on for Samu Costa and Mateo Joseph to start the second half. Later, Antonio Sánchez and Pablo Torre replaced Costa and Darder.
Mallorca's starting lineup was: Leo Román; Pablo Maffeo, Antonio Raíllo, Martin Valjent, David López, Javi Llabrés; Samu Costa, Omar Mascarell, Sergi Darder; Jan Virgili, Mateo Joseph and Vedat Muriqi. The team now faces a week of training before their next match, with the full squad available in our squad section.
The match was officiated by referee Isidro Díaz de Mera. Mallorca pushed until the end, but Betis's efficiency in two decisive actions was key. The vermilion side's next challenge comes next Saturday.
