In a tense encounter at Son Moix, CD Leganés and RCD Mallorca battled to a goalless draw on April 19, 2025, leaving both teams with mixed feelings as they continue to chase their respective season goals. With 17,404 spectators in attendance, the match showcased the struggles and aspirations of two teams at opposite ends of the LaLiga spectrum.
Leganés, currently sitting in the relegation zone, came into the match desperate for points, having secured only five from their last thirty available. Coach Borja Jiménez emphasized the necessity of a win, stating, "We need to sum up three points against whoever it may be. In this league, it’s very difficult, and we must try to accumulate points against any opponent." His sentiments reflect the urgency of their situation, as they are just two points above the last place, Alavés.
On the other hand, Mallorca, who are in contention for European qualification, were looking to capitalize on their home advantage. Coach Javier Arrasate expressed confidence in his squad despite the absence of four injured players, including key striker Muriqi. He noted, "We have to focus on winning at home, and today was an opportunity to solidify our position in the top half of the table."
The match started with both teams feeling each other out, and it quickly became evident that scoring opportunities would be at a premium. Mallorca had the better chances, with standout performances from Sergi Darder and Abdón Prats, who both attempted to break the deadlock. Darder, in particular, lamented after the match, saying, "We wanted to win. I don’t know if we are underestimating some teams. There’s not much difference between those in seventh or eighth and those at the bottom. We didn’t play well today."
As the match progressed, the tension mounted. Mallorca's defense held firm against a Leganés side that struggled to create clear-cut chances. The visitors had a few notable attempts, including a shot from Cissé that was brilliantly saved by Mallorca's goalkeeper, Greif. However, it was not enough to change the course of the match.
In the second half, both teams ramped up their efforts to find a breakthrough. Leganés made tactical substitutions, bringing on fresh legs in an attempt to shift the momentum. Neyou, who had been relatively quiet throughout the match, was substituted for Brasanac as Jiménez sought to inject new energy into his side.
Despite their efforts, neither team could find the back of the net. Mallorca's best chance came late in the match when Larin, who had been a constant threat, missed a golden opportunity to score. His failure to convert left the home fans frustrated, as they had hoped to secure all three points.
As the match drew to a close, the referee, Muñiz Ruiz, added six minutes of stoppage time, heightening the tension. Both teams pushed forward, but neither could capitalize on their chances. The final whistle confirmed a disappointing draw for both sides, with Leganés remaining in the relegation zone while Mallorca's hopes of European qualification were tempered.
After the match, goalkeeper Dmitrovic reflected on the result, stating, "We could have taken advantage of some opportunities to score, but it’s a very complicated field. We need to make this point count in our next match against Girona." His words underscore the importance of their upcoming fixtures as Leganés continues to fight for survival.
For Mallorca, the draw means they remain in the hunt for European football, but they will need to improve their performances in the coming weeks. Arrasate's frustration was evident when he received a yellow card for protesting a possible corner kick, illustrating the high stakes of the match.
The game also highlighted the competitive nature of LaLiga, where teams at both ends of the table are fighting tooth and nail for points. As the season approaches its climax, every match becomes crucial, and the pressure is mounting for teams like Leganés, who cannot afford to drop any more points.
With the season winding down, both clubs will be looking to regroup and reassess their strategies. Leganés will aim to translate their improved performances into vital victories, while Mallorca will seek to harness their home advantage to secure a spot in European competitions.
As the players left the pitch, the reality of their situations settled in. For Leganés, the fight against relegation continues, while Mallorca must focus on maintaining their momentum and seizing every opportunity to push for a place in Europe.
