RCD Mallorca secured a 2-1 victory over Athletic Club at Son Moix, propelling the Balearic side to eighth place in La Liga and moving them into the top half of the table for the first time this season. The win, highlighted by a late strike from veteran forward Sergi Barroso, also narrowed the gap to the Europa League playoff spots.
Match Overview
On a chilly January afternoon, both teams fielded their strongest line‑ups. Mallorca deployed a 4‑3‑5 formation anchored by captain Sergi Bartra, while Athletic Club set up in a classic 4‑4‑2, relying on Iker Muniain and Raúl Garcia for attacking thrust.
Key Moments
Opening Goal – 22nd Minute
A quick give‑and‑go between Jordi Álvarez and Sergi Barroso broke the deadlock, with Barroso’s low‑driven finish slipping under goalkeeper Yoan Bennacer.
Equaliser – 38th Minute
Athletic responded as Muniain delivered a precise pass to Garcia, whose header restored a 1‑1 scoreline.
Winning Goal – 78th Minute
After a corner delivered by substitute Javi Mora, Barroso rose to meet a headed clearance and calmly slotted home his 12th league goal of the season.
Statistical Highlights
- Possession: Mallorca 58% (first half) vs. Athletic 42% (second half)
- Shots on target: Mallorca 5, Athletic 4
- Total shots: Mallorca 17, Athletic 12
- Aerial duels won: Mallorca 7, Athletic 4
- Pass accuracy: Mallorca 84%, Athletic 81%
Implications for Mallorca
The three points lift Mallorca to 31 points and eighth place, just three points away from the Europa League playoff positions. The victory provides a psychological boost as the club approaches the final ten fixtures, reinforcing their defensive solidity and attacking options.
Implications for Athletic Club
Athletic Club drops to 12th with 31 points, five points behind the Europa League cutoff and only two points above the relegation zone. The loss emphasizes the need for tighter defensive organization and greater efficiency in front of goal.
Future Fixtures
Mallorca
Next up, Mallorca travel to Valencia CF on 24 January, a match that could cement their mid‑table ascent if they maintain the form displayed against Athletic.
Athletic Club
Athletic will host Sevilla a week later, a crucial test to revive their push for European competition and to halt any further slide down the table.
