A crucial second-half goal from Dani Olmo helped FC Barcelona edge past Mallorca 1-0 on Tuesday night at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, pushing their lead over arch-rivals Real Madrid to seven points at the top of La Liga.
The hard-fought win not only solidifies Barcelona’s position but also reflects the team’s resilience ahead of a busy domestic schedule.
Barcelona dominated possession throughout the match, crafting wave after wave of attacks. However, Mallorca’s goalkeeper, Leo Roman, delivered a stunning performance, denying the home side with a series of spectacular saves. Roman was the standout performer of the night, frustrating the Barcelona frontline on multiple occasions and keeping his side in the contest until the very end.
With Robert Lewandowski sidelined due to injury and the Copa del Rey final looming, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick opted for a slightly rotated lineup. Youngster Hector Fort was brought into the defense, while Eric Garcia took up an unfamiliar role in midfield. Ansu Fati also earned a rare start, showcasing Flick’s trust in Barcelona’s depth and youth development.
Despite a shaky start at the back, Barcelona soon gained control, with Pedri orchestrating play from midfield. The first half was filled with chances for the home team. Gavi struck the post, Ronald Araujo fired wide, and both Lamine Yamal and Fort had close-range efforts blocked. Yet, Barcelona remained goalless at the break due to Roman’s heroics.
The deadlock was finally broken just seconds into the second half, when Dani Olmo found space inside the box and calmly slotted the ball past Roman. It was a deserved goal for Barcelona, who had relentlessly pushed forward all evening.
Mallorca’s Cyle Larin posed a few threats with his movement and aerial presence, but Barcelona’s defense held firm. Roman continued his one-man stand, making key saves against Pau Victor and Fermin Lopez late in the match, preventing Barcelona from extending their lead.
With this win, Barcelona continues to assert its dominance in La Liga, showing both tactical flexibility and depth in the squad. As the season intensifies, Barcelona’s title charge remains firmly on course.