It took new blood. Above all, it was necessary to hang on. In a week of all dangers, between the management of workforce and Madrid pressure, Barça assured the essentials. A goal, a victory, and three points that allow the Catalans to maintain the pressure at the head of Liga. All without convincing, but by tightening the teeth. As often lately.
A massive rotation, an alternative eleven
Deprived of several executives left at rest, Hansi Flick had bet on freshness. Ansu Fati on the left, strong behind him, Eric on the right wing, Gavi in a sentry … We could have believed in a cup match. And yet, despite this alternative eleven, Barça has mastered the tempo well, monopolized the ball, but without managing to blow up the lock of a majority in place. Ferran, Lamine Yamal, Gavi, all had their chance. All stumbled on a vigilant Román Leo and a dense defense.
Yamal and Barça suffered against Mallorca.
An olmo flash, finally
The light came from the return of the locker room. A sharp ascent of Eric, a millimeter pass, and Dani Olmo, a discreet conductor, arose to conclude from a clear shot. A liberating goal, but not final. Because after this goal, Mallorca finally dared to project itself. Raillo believed in equalization on corner, and Szczesny had to remain vigilant.
Relief more than a triumph
The rest ? A sterile domination of Barça, some lightnings of Lamine Yamal, an opportunity harvested at the end of the match, and a team that was finally content to wait for the final whistle. Pedri, once again, held the shop with serenity, but it will be necessary to show more in Seville for the final of the COPA, then against Bayern. This short victory does not say everything, but it saves the essentials. For one evening, the bench background held the standing house. But it was time.
