On Matchday 20, RCD Mallorca secured a 2‑1 home victory over Athletic Club at Son Moix, moving up to 14th place with 27 points and pulling clear of the relegation zone. Forward Javi Gómez scored both the opener and the winner, while a disciplined defensive display sealed three crucial points in the early‑season title fight.
Key Moments
First Half
In the 23rd minute, Javi Gómez received a quick one‑two with Álvaro Moya and curled a low shot into the bottom corner to give Mallorca the lead. Athletic responded before halftime, with Iker Muniain finding space at the edge of the box and slotting a precise finish in the 38th minute to level the score.
Second Half
The decisive action arrived in the 71st minute when left‑back Sergi Barrachina surged forward, delivering a pinpoint cross that Gómez met with a low header past goalkeeper Unai Simón, restoring Mallorca’s advantage. Athletic pressed for an equaliser but Mallorca’s organized defence, led by captain Jorge Segura, held firm.
Statistical Overview
- Shots: 58 total (Mallorca 34, Athletic 24)
- Shots on target: Mallorca 12, Athletic 9
- Possession: Mallorca 51 % – Athletic 49 %
- Corners: 5 each side
- Passing accuracy: Mallorca 84 % – Athletic 81 %
- Man of the match: Javi Gómez (goal and assist)
Match Context
This win ends Mallorca’s five‑match winless streak and marks their first home victory of the season. Under manager Luis Gómez‑Cabrera, the team has adopted a high‑pressing approach that is beginning to yield results. Athletic entered the game aiming to build on a modest three‑point run but have struggled for consistency after key midfield departures.
Implications for LaLiga
The three points lift Mallorca to 14th place, two points above the relegation zone, and improve their record to 3 wins, 5 draws, and 2 losses. Athletic fall to 13th with 20 points, tightening the competition for European‑qualification spots as they prepare for a challenging clash against league leaders Real Madrid.
Looking Ahead
- Mallorca travel to Villarreal CF on 24 January at the Estadio de la Cerámica.
- Athletic face Real Madrid on 27 January, a match that could define their season’s trajectory.
The Son Moix triumph signals a turning point for Mallorca, reigniting belief and highlighting the growing importance of tactical versatility in LaLiga.
