Antonio Rüdiger scored a second-half goal to lead La Liga leaders Real Madrid to a 1-0 victory against visitors Mallorca on Wednesday, extending their unbeaten streak in the Spanish top flight to 13 matches. With this win, Real's points tally rises to 48, three points ahead of surprise team Girona, who are set to host third-placed Atlético Madrid later today.
The center-back opened the scoring in the 78th minute, capitalizing on a defensive failure to clear a corner taken by Luka Modrić, heading powerfully into the net to mark his first goal of the season. Mallorca showcased strong defensive play and came close to surprising Real Madrid with two attempts that hit the woodwork.
Vinícius Júnior nearly opened the scoring upon his return from injury, but Mallorca's goalkeeper Predrag Rajković brilliantly denied his attempt to keep the Brazilian from scoring in the first half.
Dani Carvajal told Real Madrid TV, "It's always tough when returning from breaks. Mallorca executed a very good tactical performance and played with strong defense. The set piece gave us victory." He added, "We finished the first half as potential leaders, 48 points is a high number. In the second half, we will aim to surpass this tally."
Real Madrid will face Arandina, a fifth-division side, in the first round of the Copa del Rey before taking on Atlético Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup.
