Dani Olmo's early second-half strike helped Barcelona secure a comprehensive victory over Mallorca, extending their lead at the top of La Liga to seven points.
Olmo netted just 41 seconds into the second half, breaking a first-half deadlock where Barcelona had failed to convert from 24 attempts on goal.
Mallorca’s goalkeeper Leo Roman was outstanding, making several crucial saves to deny Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres before the break, as the visitors withstood relentless pressure from Barcelona.
In an intense moment of play, Roman and his defenders produced a remarkable sequence, blocking Barcelona four times in quick succession within the penalty area.
Despite having only 22% possession in the first half, Mallorca managed to break behind Barcelona's high defensive line on three occasions, although they were all ruled offside.
The crowd at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys grew restless at the interval, but Olmo's composed finish early in the second half eased the tension.
With an eye on the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid on Saturday, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick made seven changes, bringing on Raphinha and Fermin Lopez. However, Roman was again in top form, making 11 saves to keep his team in the game.
Barcelona’s 40 shots marked the highest number of attempts by any La Liga team this season, while Mallorca failed to register a single shot on target.
With the win, Barcelona now hold a commanding seven-point lead at the summit, while Mallorca, still chasing Europa League qualification, remain seventh with 44 points, just ahead of Celta Vigo.
Source: BBC
BDST: 1430 HRS, APR 23, 2025
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