The Matchday 1 La Liga clash between Mallorca and Barcelona will take place on August 16 at the Son Moix Stadium. Mallorca vs. Barcelona: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Mallorca
Under the guidance of Jagoba Arrasate, Mallorca spent most of last season as contenders for a European competition spot. However, due to a poor finish (only one win in the last seven matches), they ended up in 10th place. The team was noted for its solid defense last season (conceding only 44 goals) but struggled with finishing, scoring just 35 goals. Only two clubs scored fewer in the previous La Liga season.
The club was not very active in the transfer market this summer, with the notable addition being young midfielder Pablo Torre from Barcelona.
- No more than 3 goals were scored in Mallorca's last 14 La Liga matches.
- Both teams scored in 7 of Mallorca's last 8 home matches in the league.
- Exactly two or three goals were scored in 5 of the team's last 6 home games in La Liga.
Predicted lineup for Mallorca (5-4-1)
Dominik Greif – Martin Valjent, Antonio Raillo, Mateu Morey, Johan Mojica, Pablo Maffeo – Sergi Darder, Daniel Rodriguez, Samu Costa, Omar Mascarell – Vedat Muriqi.
Barcelona
Last season, the team was led by Hans Flick. With the German specialist, Barcelona reclaimed the title of Spain's top club, earning 88 points, matching their 2022/23 La Liga performance. For the first time in 8 years, the team scored over 100 goals in a single championship. Additionally, Barcelona was the highest-scoring team in away matches in La Liga, netting 50 goals. Notably, they are currently on a 7-match winning streak away in La Liga.
In the offseason, the club signed goalkeeper Joan Garcia and forward Marcus Rashford. Notable departures include forward Pau Victor and defender Inigo Martinez.
- The club has won 16 of their last 18 La Liga matches.
- Barcelona scored at least twice in 11 of their last 14 league games.
- The Catalans are unbeaten in their last 11 away matches in La Liga (8 wins and 3 draws).
Predicted lineup for Barcelona (4-4-2)
Wojciech Szczesny – Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Eric Garcia – Dani Olmo, Pedri, Gavi – Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha Dias.
Goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen will miss about 2 months due to injury.
Match Prediction: Mallorca vs. Barcelona
Mallorca did not make significant reinforcements this summer, so they are likely to remain mid-table this season. It will be challenging for Mallorca to earn points against La Liga's top clubs, including Barcelona. The Catalans are defending their title and will aim to secure points from the very start, especially against teams of a lower caliber.
I believe Hans Flick's side will secure 3 points in this game. Barcelona has an excellent record against this opponent, winning 14 of their last 15 La Liga encounters (with one draw). Additionally, the Catalans have won their last 7 away league matches, with a dominant aggregate score of 18:4.
My prediction – Barcelona to win
