Real Madrid vs. RCD Mallorca Prediction: Can Mallorca Upset the Perfect Start?

Real Madrid, riding high on a flawless start to the 2025-26 La Liga season, welcomes RCD Mallorca to the Santiago Bernabeu this Saturday, aiming to secure their third consecutive victory. The anticipation is palpable as Carlo Ancelotti's squad seeks to maintain their position among the league leaders, while Mallorca hopes to disrupt the home side's rhythm and climb out of the lower ranks.

Los Blancos have demonstrated their mettle with hard-fought wins against Osasuna and Real Oviedo, accumulating six points and currently sitting third in the La Liga standings. These victories, however, were not without their challenges, highlighting the need for Real Madrid to refine their approach as the season progresses. Mallorca, on the other hand, finds themselves in 16th place, having managed just a single point from their initial two matches. The team is eager to showcase their resilience and secure a positive result against the formidable Real Madrid.

Real Madrid's campaign commenced with a narrow 1-0 victory over Osasuna on August 19, thanks to a decisive goal from Kylian Mbappe. The match was a test of endurance and tactical acumen, as Osasuna proved to be a stubborn opponent. Similarly, their second encounter against Real Oviedo presented its own set of difficulties, but Real Madrid ultimately emerged victorious with a convincing 3-0 scoreline, with Mbappé scoring twice and Vinicius Junior adding another goal. These victories underscore the team's attacking prowess and ability to capitalize on opportunities.

Currently, Real Madrid is one of five La Liga teams, along with Villarreal, Barcelona, Getafe, and Athletic Bilbao, that have secured maximum points from their opening two fixtures. The fans are optimistic and expect nothing less than another victory before the impending international break. The competition at the top of the table is fierce, with Barcelona's attacking strength posing a constant threat. Real Madrid cannot afford to slip up if they aim to stay in contention for the title. Barcelona's recent 3-2 victory over Levante, although showcasing their attacking talent, also revealed defensive vulnerabilities that Real Madrid will be keen to exploit should the opportunity arise.

Historically, Real Madrid holds a dominant record against Mallorca, having won 46 of their 75 previous encounters. Last season, they completed a league double over Mallorca, including a 2-1 victory at the Bernabéu. These statistics highlight Real Madrid's historical advantage, but Mallorca will be determined to defy the odds and create their own history.

For the upcoming match, coach Alonso will again be without key players Jude Bellingham, Endrick, Ferland Mendy, and Eduardo Camavinga due to injuries. Despite these absences, there are no new fitness concerns within the squad. Alonso may opt to field the same starting XI that played against Oviedo, with Vinicius potentially returning to the lineup in place of Rodrygo. The team's depth and tactical flexibility will be crucial in overcoming the challenges posed by Mallorca.

Dani Carvajal is expected to retain his position at right-back over Trent Alexander-Arnold, while Antonio Rudiger is vying to maintain his centre-back spot alongside Dean Huijsen, potentially keeping Eder Militao on the bench. These decisions reflect the coach's strategic approach and his confidence in the players' abilities to execute the game plan effectively.

Mallorca's 2025-26 La Liga campaign began poorly with a 3-0 defeat to Barcelona, a match that saw two of their players sent off before halftime. The team faced significant challenges and will be eager to put that defeat behind them.

However, Jagoba Arrasate’s squad displayed greater resilience in their second match, securing a 1-1 draw at home against Celta Vigo. Mateu Morey's 87th-minute equaliser salvaged a point for the hosts, demonstrating the team's fighting spirit and determination. This draw will serve as a morale booster as they prepare to face Real Madrid.

With only one point from their first two games, Mallorca is currently 16th in the league standings. A victory against Real Madrid this weekend would be a significant boost, propelling them up the table ahead of the international break. While it is an ambitious goal, the team will be motivated to achieve it. Mallorca had a commendable season last year, finishing 10th in La Liga and narrowly missing out on European qualification by four points. The squad retains enough quality to make another push for continental football this season.

Mallorca's recent record against Real Madrid is not encouraging. Their last victory against Los Blancos was in February 2023, and they have not won a league match at the Bernabéu since May 2009. Overcoming this historical disadvantage will be a major challenge for the team.

Vedat Muriqi and Manu Morlanes are back in Mallorca’s squad after serving suspensions in their previous match, and both are likely to start. Their return will provide a significant boost to the team's attacking and defensive capabilities.

New summer signing Pablo Torre, who arrived from Barcelona, is expected to play in the number 10 role for the visitors. His creativity and vision will be crucial in unlocking Real Madrid's defence.

Sergi Darder and Toni Lato are also expected to keep their places in the starting lineup, with Lato potentially playing in midfield. The consistency in team selection reflects the coach's confidence in the players' abilities to execute the game plan.

This match could be difficult for Real Madrid, as Mallorca has a lot of quality and will be confident that they can be the first team to score against Alonso’s team this season. However, Los Blancos are still expected to win their third league game in a row, to maintain their perfect start to the season and signal their intent to reclaim the title. The match promises to be a captivating encounter between two teams with contrasting ambitions and approaches.