Real Madrid vs Mallorca: Dramatic Comeback Win Keeps Title Hopes Alive

In a nail-biting La Liga encounter on May 14, 2025, Real Madrid pulled off a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over RCD Mallorca at the Santiago Bernabéu. The result doesn't just add three points to Madrid’s tally – it momentarily holds off Barcelona’s march to the title and injects late-season drama into the title race.

A Shock Start from the Visitors

The game didn't begin the way Carlo Ancelotti or the Madrid faithful would’ve liked. Within the first 15 minutes, Mallorca silenced the Bernabéu crowd when defender Martin Valjent took advantage of a loose defensive setup to put the visitors ahead. His well-timed run and composed finish stunned the hosts, who looked momentarily rattled.

Mallorca, who are battling at the opposite end of the table, didn’t sit back completely. They defended deep but didn’t hesitate to break forward when opportunities arose. Their discipline and tactical shape frustrated Madrid throughout the first half, keeping the home side at bay despite waves of pressure.

Frustration Turns to Relief

Real Madrid saw much of the ball but struggled to break through Mallorca’s compact backline. The absence of key players like Brahim Díaz and goalkeeper Andriy Lunin was clearly felt. However, the likes of Luka Modrić, Federico Valverde, and Vinícius Jr. kept probing, creating half-chances and forcing Mallorca goalkeeper Leo Román into action on several occasions.

The breakthrough finally came in the second half. Who else but Kylian Mbappé? The French superstar, who continues to deliver in crucial moments, brought Real Madrid level in the 68th minute. Collecting a pass near the edge of the box, he beat two defenders with a brilliant piece of footwork before rifling a low shot into the bottom corner. The Bernabéu erupted – not just because of the goal, but because hope was still alive.

Youth to the Rescue: Jacobo Ramón’s Moment of Glory

As the match ticked into injury time, it looked like Real Madrid would have to settle for a point – a result that would almost certainly hand Barcelona the title. But in the dying moments, the unlikeliest of heroes emerged.

20-year-old academy product Jacobo Ramón, a relatively unknown name outside Madrid’s inner circle, rose highest in the 95th minute to head home the winner. It was a poetic moment – a local lad stepping up when the giants needed a savior. The stadium erupted once more, this time with pure joy and disbelief.

It wasn’t just a goal – it was a statement. Real Madrid isn’t done yet.

Ancelotti’s Gamble Pays Off

Carlo Ancelotti deserves credit for keeping faith in his squad depth. With multiple injuries limiting his choices, he turned to Castilla players and rotated his lineup intelligently. The decision to introduce Jesús Vallejo and Jacobo Ramón late in the game proved pivotal. It highlighted Ancelotti’s ability to trust the next generation – something Madrid fans have been calling for in recent seasons.

Moreover, Madrid’s fighting spirit was evident. Despite trailing and facing a well-organized opponent, they never lost belief. Their intensity in the second half, particularly after the equalizer, showcased their desire to push the title race to the wire.

What This Means for the Title Race

With this result, Real Madrid narrows the gap to just four points behind leaders Barcelona, who still have a game in hand. Although the Catalan side remains favorites, Madrid’s victory delays their title celebration – at least for now.

It also sends a message: if Barcelona slips, even once, Los Blancos will be ready to pounce.

There are still three league matches left, and every game is now a final. Madrid must win all their remaining fixtures and hope that Barça drops points, which looks unlikely but not impossible in the unpredictable world of football.

Mallorca: Deserved More?

Despite the loss, Mallorca can take plenty of positives from the game. They executed their game plan well, showed good defensive discipline, and looked dangerous on the counter. For a team struggling in the lower half of the table, this performance was full of heart and grit.

However, conceding so late will sting. Manager Javier Aguirre’s side was just seconds away from pulling off one of the most impressive away results of the season. If they can carry this energy into their final matches, they should have no trouble securing safety.

Final Thoughts

Real Madrid's win over Mallorca was more than just another three points. It was a showcase of resilience, squad depth, and youthful energy. Kylian Mbappé did what was expected, but Jacobo Ramón’s late winner added a romantic twist to the tale – the kind of moment that defines seasons.

With just a few games left, the race for La Liga remains alive – and as always with Real Madrid, expect the unexpected.