Real Madrid’s pursuit of the La Liga title suffered a significant setback as Vedat Muriqi netted a stoppage-time winner to secure a 2-1 victory for Mallorca, keeping Álvaro Arbeloa’s side four points behind Barcelona.
The hosts opened the scoring just before half-time. Manu Morlanes controlled a precise cross from Pablo Maffeo, took a touch to steady himself, and fired the ball into the bottom right corner, giving Mallorca a crucial lead.
Real Madrid looked set to rescue a point when Eder Militao powered home a header from Trent Alexander-Arnold’s corner in the 88th minute, raising hopes of a late comeback. However, Muriqi had the final word, scoring in the first minute of stoppage time to clinch his 19th league goal of the season and secure a stunning win for the hosts.
The result leaves Real Madrid unable to cut the gap on Barcelona, while Mallorca climbs two points clear of the relegation zone. Barcelona could extend its advantage later on Saturday when they face Atlético Madrid.
Before Mallorca’s opener, Real created several chances but were repeatedly denied by a resolute Leo Roman, who produced key saves to keep the hosts ahead. Kylian Mbappe was twice thwarted—first by Roman’s outstretched leg and then from a curling shot that was pushed behind. Arda Guler also saw a low-driven effort well blocked.
At the other end, Morlanes had earlier glanced a header over the bar but redeemed himself with the decisive strike before half-time.
The late drama left Real Madrid dejected, marking their first defeat to Mallorca since February 2023 and dealing a blow to their La Liga ambitions.
Looking ahead, Real will aim to bounce back when they host Bayern Munich in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday (20:00 BST).
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