Palma, Spain – Martín Demichelis secured his first home victory as manager of RCD Mallorca on Sunday, orchestrating a dramatic 2-1 comeback win against Espanyol. The result was pivotal for the club, lifting them out of the La Liga relegation zone and into 16th place with 28 points.
The win, achieved at the Son Moix stadium, marked a significant moment for Demichelis, who previously managed Monterrey in Mexico’s Liga MX, and provided a much-needed boost for the Mallorcan faithful. The team capitalized on a second-half sending-off, turning the tide against a resilient Espanyol side.
Espanyol took the lead in the 35th minute through Charles Pickel, finishing a counter-attack initiated by Dolan. However, Mallorca responded with increasing pressure, though Martin Valjent was unable to convert a clear opportunity. The game shifted decisively in the 53rd minute when Pickel received a red card following a reckless challenge on Omar Mascarell, a decision initially a yellow card but overturned after VAR review.
Recognizing the advantage, Demichelis made attacking substitutions, bringing on French winger Kalumba Jr. And Luvumbo, and adjusting the team’s tactical approach. This proactive change paid dividends in the 65th minute when Pablo Torre leveled the score, capitalizing on a loose ball in the Espanyol penalty area. The goal was briefly reviewed by VAR to check for a potential foul by Samu Costa in the build-up, but the decision stood.
Mallorca continued to press, and their persistence was rewarded in the 88th minute. A precise assist from Omar Mascarell found Samu Costa, who calmly slotted the ball past Espanyol goalkeeper Dmitrovic to secure the 2-1 victory. The goal was Costa’s fifth of the season, a significant contribution in the club’s fight for survival.
Demichelis, speaking after the match, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and the support from the home crowd. “Happy for the group. It was difficult from an emotional standpoint. We pulled the game out together. It was my first game here, and the need was great,” he said, as reported by Infobae. He emphasized the importance of unity and calm, acknowledging the challenges ahead.
“We asked for unity and received a great welcome, we asked for calm. Today is a clear example that it won’t be easy. They let me know that we were going to have a welcome from the fans and the dressing room wanted to perceive close to the people,” Demichelis added, highlighting the positive atmosphere at Son Moix.
The Argentine manager also reiterated his commitment to the club, stating, “I can’t prioritize just playing well without points, I like to be close to that, but the situation is what it is. I desire Mallorca to be saved, I want to stay here. They have everything to be happy in this profession.”
Demichelis continued, “I’m happy, hopefully One can play well in these remaining games. I already said we were going to see a pragmatic coach, without inventing. Everything we endeavor to do well, we train for. Sometimes, being unpredictable for the opponent is a detail that makes the difference because details win or lose games.” He referenced a previous match against Osasuna where a late long ball cost them points, emphasizing his preference for maintaining possession while acknowledging the need for pragmatism.
Mallorca’s next challenge comes on Saturday, March 21st, with a visit to Elche, another team battling to avoid relegation. The match will be crucial in the context of the La Liga standings and will kick off at 10:00 AM Argentina time (UTC-3).[Infobae]
This victory represents a significant step forward for Mallorca under Demichelis’s leadership. The team’s ability to respond to adversity, coupled with the manager’s tactical adjustments, proved decisive against Espanyol. For fans, the escape from the relegation zone offers a renewed sense of hope as they navigate the remaining fixtures of the La Liga season. The win also underscores the importance of home advantage, with Demichelis’s first match at Son Moix proving to be a memorable occasion.
The red card issued to Espanyol’s Pickel proved to be a turning point, allowing Mallorca to dictate the tempo and ultimately secure the three points. The performance of Samu Costa, with his decisive goal, further highlighted the team’s attacking potential. Demichelis’s willingness to introduce fresh legs in the form of Kalumba Jr. And Luvumbo also demonstrated his commitment to utilizing the full squad.
Looking ahead, the match against Elche will be a stern test for Mallorca. Elche, also fighting for their La Liga survival, will undoubtedly present a difficult challenge. However, with the confidence gained from this victory, Demichelis and his team will be determined to continue their climb up the league table.
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