Kylian Mbappe’s La Liga debut ended in frustration as Real Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw by Real Mallorca on Sunday in their opening game of the season.
Real Madrid took the lead early in the match with a goal from Rodrygo Goes, but Mallorca equalized in the second half through a header by Vedat Muriqi. Despite several attempts, including efforts from Mbappe, Madrid was unable to secure a victory.
Ferland Mendy was sent off in stoppage time after a high challenge on Muriqi, adding to Madrid’s woes in a match where they struggled to break down a resilient Mallorca side.
“We went ahead, we had chances to score the second, and then in the second half we lacked balance,” said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. “We conceded counter-attacks, it was not a good game. It was quite clear that we need to defend better and have better balance on the pitch.”
Ancelotti fielded the same starting lineup that defeated Atalanta to win the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday, with Jude Bellingham in midfield supporting the attacking trio of Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo.
Mbappe, who scored in the Super Cup, was unable to find the net in his La Liga debut. His efforts were thwarted by Mallorca goalkeeper Dominik Greif, who made several key saves to keep his team in the match.
Mallorca, under new coach Jagoba Arrasate, secured a valuable point against the reigning champions. Arrasate, managing his first match with the team, faced a tough challenge against Madrid, especially with the addition of Mbappe to their lineup.
Real Madrid started the game strongly, taking the lead after a well-executed move between their Brazilian forwards. Vinicius Junior set up Rodrygo, who curled a shot into the far corner, beyond the reach of Greif.
Despite maintaining pressure, Madrid was unable to extend their lead. Greif denied another effort from Rodrygo, and Mbappe sent a shot wide.
Mallorca equalized early in the second half when Muriqi powered a header home from Dani Rodriguez’s corner. Madrid responded with increased pressure, but Greif and the Mallorca defense held firm.
In an effort to break through Mallorca’s defense, Ancelotti brought on veteran midfielder Luka Modric for Aurelien Tchouameni. However, despite creating more chances, Madrid was unable to find a winning goal.
Mbappe came close to scoring again, but Greif was equal to the task, denying him and allowing Johan Mojica to clear the rebound.
Mallorca held on in the final stages, securing a point and leaving Mbappe disappointed in his La Liga debut. Madrid’s frustration culminated in Mendy’s red card for his foul on Muriqi.
“I’m so tired but it was worth it, it was so important to get a point against a team like Madrid, maybe the best in the world,” said Muriqi. “I have to be honest, scoring against Madrid is so beautiful.”
Madrid will look to improve in their next fixture as they aim to defend their La Liga title.
