Mallorca vs. Barcelona: Match Preview & Team News

As La Liga tightens up, Barcelona's recent struggles will face a stern test as they journey to Mallorca for a crucial fixture on Tuesday evening. Despite being at the top of the table, the Catalan giants are coming off a disappointing run, with just one point from their last three league matches. Conversely, Mallorca is riding high on the back of successive victories, making this match an intriguing encounter.

Current Form

Mallorca

Mallorca’s unexpected rise to sixth in La Liga is surprising, considering they have scored only 15 goals in 15 matches this season—their success grounded in a rock-solid defense. With only 13 goals conceded, they boast the joint third-best defensive record in the league. Their recent home win against Valencia exemplified their resilience. Falling behind to a penalty, they rallied back with goals from Cyle Larin and Abdon Prats, securing a 2-1 victory.

The Pirates are just two points behind Athletic Bilbao, fueling hopes of a European spot, but they will need to enhance their scoring rate in upcoming matches to make that goal a reality.

Barcelona

In stark contrast, Barcelona's form has dipped significantly. Despite remaining league leaders with 34 points, their recent 2-1 home defeat against Las Palmas raises questions about their title ambitions. With a record of 11 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses this season, they are experiencing a troubling form with 16 goals conceded, four of which have come in their last two outings. Despite thriving in Champions League competition, winning four of five matches, the situation in La Liga is pressing.

Head-to-Head History

Historically, Mallorca has struggled against Barcelona, having not won since May 2009. Their last encounter resulted in a draw during the current season. Nonetheless, the current momentum favors Mallorca, especially considering Barcelona's recent struggles.

Team News

Mallorca

Mallorca's coach, Jagoba Arrasate, will be missing key players including Toni Lato, Ivan Cuellar, Takuma Asano, and Copete. However, Vedat Muriqi returns from suspension, poised to make an impact in the final third. The expected lineup could see Muriqi alongside Larin in attack, bolstered by Sergi Darder and Robert Navarro on the flanks.

Possible Starting XI: Greif; Morey, Valjent, Raillo, Mojica; Morlanes, Costa; Navarro, Darder; Larin, Muriqi

Barcelona

Barcelona's injury concerns include Ansu Fati, Marc Bernal, Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araujo, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, all sidelined for this match. Dani Olmo remains a doubt, as he was not risked against Las Palmas. If he is unavailable, Barcelona might turn to either Fermin Lopez or Pablo Torre for the number 10 role, assuming Lamine Yamal returns to the starting XI after injury.

Possible Starting XI: Pena; Kounde, Cubarsi, I Martinez, Martin; Casado, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski

Predictions

Considering the stakes for both teams, Barcelona will be eager to reclaim their winning spark and fend off the challenge from Real Madrid, who trail closely behind. However, with Mallorca’s robust defense and home advantage, this match promises to be tightly contested.

We predict Mallorca 1 - 2 Barcelona; a challenging fixture for the Catalans, who need to rise above their recent woes to secure vital points.

For the latest updates, analysis, and match coverage, don’t forget to check back after the game!