PALMA, SPAIN:
Barcelona bounced back from a winless run to secure a dominant 5-1 victory over Mallorca on Tuesday, with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal playing starring roles. The win puts Barcelona at the top of La Liga with 37 points, four ahead of second-placed Real Madrid, although they’ve played two more games.
Ferran Torres gave Barcelona the lead in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error by Mallorca. The hosts equalized just before halftime when Vedat Muriqi tapped in a cross from Pablo Maffeo. However, the second half saw Barcelona take control, with Raphinha scoring twice, followed by goals from Frenkie de Jong and Pau Victor.
Raphinha, who was instrumental throughout, expressed the importance of the win after a tough few matches. “It wasn’t our best game, but winning was crucial,” he said post-match.
Yamal, making his return after an ankle injury, provided a major boost, helping Barcelona create multiple chances. His pace earned a penalty for Raphinha in the 56th minute, and he also set up two goals, including a stunning assist for de Jong’s strike. The 17-year-old’s performance highlighted Barcelona’s rejuvenated attack, which had been lacking in his absence.
With Mallorca now six points off a Champions League spot, Barcelona’s commanding display brings them closer to a title challenge, while Mallorca will need to regroup after a heavy defeat.
