Barcelona vs. Mallorca: Player Ratings at Halftime
At halftime, FC Barcelona finds themselves level with Mallorca in a goalless draw, a first half marred by missed penalty opportunities and Raphinha’s injury exit. Raphinha, who felt discomfort in his right Achilles tendon during a penalty incident caused by Copete, had to leave the field after Gündogan failed to convert from the spot, with Rajkovic anticipating the German’s intentions.
Xavi Hernández, serving a touchline suspension, made four changes from the lineup that drew against Athletic Bilbao. Three changes were forced due to Araujo’s suspension and the injuries to Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, with Iñigo, Joao Félix, and Lamine stepping in. The noteworthy inclusion in the starting eleven is the academy product Marc Guiu, given the nod ahead of Robert Lewandowski to provide some rest. Despite Guiu’s battles with opposing defenders, he couldn’t find opportunities to score.
The pivotal moment that could have defined the game was the penalty miss by Gündogan, as little else unfolded beyond that. Barcelona struggled against a Mallorca side that defended without locking themselves entirely. Only Cubarsí, solid in defense, and Gündogan, accurate in distribution, stood out with commendable performances.
