Real Mallorca vs Valencia
La Liga
Saturday
7th October 2023
Iberostar Estadi
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the gameweek nine La Liga fixture between Real Mallorca and Valencia.
Real Mallorca vs Valencia: Preview
Real Mallorca form analysis
Mallorca had a tight 0-0 draw at home against Athletic Bilbao. However, defensive issues surfaced in a 0-1 away loss at Celta Vigo despite dominating possession. Mallorca’s problems intensified in a heavy 3-5 home thrashing by Girona, despite Muriqi’s penalty and a late Prats double. They did better to draw 2-2 at home against Barcelona, with Muriqi and Prats on target before Fermin’s late equalizer. Last time out, Mallorca drew another thriller 2-2 away at Rayo Vallecano, as Muriqi and Sanchez struck either side of goals from Garcia and Falcao’s late penalty.
Overall, it’s been an entertaining but error-strewn spell for Mallorca. They have showcased attacking threat, with Muriqi netting 4 goals in 5 games. But silly defensive mistakes have cost them, highlighted in the losses to Celta and Girona. If Javier Aguirre can retain Mallorca’s danger going forward while cutting out individual errors, they have a strong chance of avoiding relegation this term. But improving defensive focus is essential now.
Valencia form analysis
Valencia began September with a 0-1 away loss at Alaves after an early own goal from Ozakacar. However, they responded impressively by hammering Atletico 3-0 at home, inspired by a Hugo Duro brace. But defensive issues resurfaced in an entertaining 2-2 draw away at Almeria, surrendering a lead twice. Valencia then suffered a fourth straight winless game, losing 0-1 at home to Real Sociedad after Fernandez’s goal. Most recently, defensive problems persisted in a 0-3 home thrashing by Real Betis.
Overall, it’s been an inconsistent spell for Valencia as Gennaro Gattuso tries to shape his new-look side. They have showcased their attacking threat at times, led by new signing Duro. But silly defensive errors have cost Valencia points, highlighted in the collapse at Almeria. Avoiding thrashings like against Betis is crucial now for rebuilding confidence. If Gattuso can make his side more solid and resilient, there is quality in attack to hurt teams. But improving defensive organization is vital after this erratic run.
