RCD Mallorca pulled off a dramatic late equalizer against Sevilla FC on February 24, 2025, securing a hard-fought 1-1 draw at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium. The late goal not only salvaged a point for Mallorca but also highlighted Sevilla's frustrations as they failed to secure much-needed points.
Sevilla took the lead just before half-time when Kike Salas capitalized on defensive jitters from the Mallorca side. After failing to clear their lines, the ball fell kindly to Salas, who volleyed it home from close range, sending the home fans momentarily jubilant.
The first half was characterized by Sevilla's dominance, with Dodi Lukebakio and Ruben Vargas threatening the Mallorca goal. Despite their offensive approach and controlling the game, they could not convert their chances effectively, often coming up against stout resistance from Mallorca's defense.
Sevilla's lead, albeit tenuous, was challenged continuously throughout the second half. The team began strong, with Lukebakio coming close on several occasions, but they could not increase their advantage. His shots went narrowly wide, and Sevilla began to rue their inability to put the game out of reach.
Meanwhile, as the game unfolded, protests erupted among the Sevilla fans, who voiced their displeasure at both the scheduling of the match on a Monday night and the club's financial handling. Many supported their grievances with banners, one reading, "The salary cap reflects your ability to manage; out of Sevilla," echoing sentiments of discontent with executive decisions at the club.
The atmosphere shifted dramatically when Mallorca brought on substitutes Cyle Larin and Robert Navarro, who began to pose significant challenges for Sevilla's backline. Navarro, particularly, had several near misses as he tried to convert opportunities presented to him. It seemed as if time was winding down against Mallorca as they searched for any opportunity to find the back of the net.
Just when it appeared Sevilla would secure the victory, disaster struck for the home side. Orjan Nyland, Sevilla's goalkeeper, misjudged a high cross and fumbled the ball right at the feet of Martin Valjent. The Slovak defender coolly slid the ball home for Mallorca, bringing the score to 1-1 during the first minute of stoppage time.
The equalizer sent the jubilant Mallorca fans celebrating as they snatched away what could have been three points from Sevilla. This match highlighted the themes of resilience and frustration felt across the pitch, reflecting the struggles of both teams as the season progresses.
With this draw, Mallorca moved up to eighth place, now level on points with both Rayo Vallecano and Real Betis, yet just one point clear of Real Sociedad. On the other hand, Sevilla remained at the eleventh spot, three points adrift of the European qualification spots, illustrating their continuing battle for consistency this season.
It was yet another evening of 'what could have been' for Sevilla who have struggled to find their clinical edge and convert their dominance on the field to tangible results. Mallorca, for their part, will take the confidence of this late equalizer and rally as they push forward to cement their place higher in the league standings.