La Liga leaders Real Madrid began the 2024 calendar year with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Mallorca at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Centre-back Antonio Rüdiger scored the match-winner in the 78th minute, connecting with a Luka Modrić corner to break the deadlock.
It was a game of fine margins, with both sides hitting the woodwork in the match. Mallorca were denied by the crossbar and post, while Real substitute Brahim Díaz was unfortunate to head against the upright when it looked easier to score.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti, who recently extended his contract to 2026, made four changes to the side that won 1-0 away at Alavés. This included giving a first start since November to Brazilian star Vinicius Junior, after injury.
The hosts dominated possession and carved out the better openings, but found Mallorca goalkeeper Predrag Rajković in inspired form. He made excellent saves to keep out efforts from Modrić and the returning Vinicius.
Rüdiger eventually made the difference with his accurate header from Modrić’s corner, as Real ground out victory to go three points clear at the LaLiga summit ahead of second-placed Girona, who are in action against third-placed Atletico Madrid.
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