On a cool April evening at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona inched closer to La Liga glory with a hard-fought 1-0 win over a disciplined Mallorca side. This wasn’t a night of flashy football—it was a tactical battle, and it was Dani Olmo who emerged as the unlikely hero in a crucial Matchday 33 clash.
With just five games remaining in the 2024-25 season, Barcelona needed a moment of brilliance to crack Mallorca’s organized defense, led by head coach Jagoba Arrasate. That moment came early in the second half from Olmo—a player often overshadowed by bigger names in the squad—who delivered a composed, curling finish after a clever assist from Lamine Yamal.
From the outset, Barcelona dominated possession, peaking at over 70%, but struggled to break down Mallorca’s low block. Center-backs Antonio Raíllo and Martin Valjent, along with a stellar performance from goalkeeper Leo Román—who made 11 saves—kept the game tight. Román’s stunning double-save against Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati highlighted Mallorca’s defiance.
With Lewandowski sidelined, Barcelona’s frontline lacked cutting edge. Mallorca, meanwhile, threatened on the counter through Cyle Larin and Sergi Darder, but young defender Hector Fort stood strong alongside Ronald Araujo in defense.
Despite 14 first-half shots, Barcelona couldn’t find the net, and tension built both in the stands and online. That tension broke just moments into the second half. Olmo received Yamal’s pass, turned smoothly, and curled a precise strike past Román—his sixth league goal of the season.
But Olmo’s impact went far beyond the goal. He completed 36 passes, made three key passes, and was heavily involved with 57 touches. His smart movement disrupted Mallorca’s shape and created space for teammates. He also contributed defensively, pressing high and fitting seamlessly into Hansi Flick’s aggressive system.
Mallorca tried to respond—a goal from Mateu Morey was ruled out for offside, and Larin missed a late chance—but they couldn’t beat Szczęsny, who remained solid in goal. Araujo’s seven clearances anchored the defense and preserved the clean sheet.
Barcelona’s 26th league win was more than just three points—it was a statement of squad depth and tactical maturity. With key players like Lewandowski and ter Stegen out, Olmo’s performance was a timely reminder that titles aren’t always won by the biggest stars.
As Barcelona gears up for a Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid and a Champions League semifinal clash with Inter Milan, Olmo’s emergence could prove pivotal. On a night when Barcelona needed someone to step up, he answered the call—quietly, confidently, and decisively.
