It's been a disappointing season for the Vermilions, who are currently tied for 13th place and are just three points above the relegation zone. After battling for the Primera Division lives at the end of last season, it's shaping up to be more of the same this year. Real Madrid has enjoyed relatively smooth sailing so far. The trio of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gonzalo Higuain and Karim Benzema have been nearly unstoppable in the attacking third and the team's defense has been steady as well. Where: Iberostar Stadium in Palma, SpainWhen: Saturday, Jan. 14 at 2 p. m. ETWatch: ESPN3. comBetting Odds: Real Madrid -420, Mallorca +1030, Draw +455Player to Watch for Mallorca: Víctor CasadesusCasadesus has received an uptick in playing time for Mallorca this season and has made the most of it. He's scored four goals in 14 games and has utilized a much more aggressive approach than was previously expected from him. He's combined with Tomer Hemed to provide most of the Vermilions' goal-scoring during the campaign.
The German national team member has eight assists in 16 games. He's always been known for his distribution skills but really took his game to the next level last season. It appears he's carried over that momentum into the current campaign and should continue to have a major impact. Key Matchup: Vermilions' back line vs. Whites attackMallorca enters the game knowing it has no chance of keeping up with Real Madrid if they play an open style of play. That means the Vermilions will need to hunker down on the back end and hope to keep the Whites out of prime scoring positions. It's easier said than done of course, especially since Ronaldo will be a man on a mission after falling short in player of the year voting once again.
Mallorca vs Real Madrid Live Stream & Prediction, H2H
Watch RCD Mallorca vs. Real Madrid Online - For The Win
It's a lack of depth behind them which has caused some offensive droughts. If Mallorca is going to keep it close, Casadesus will need to be in rare form. Denis Doyle/Getty ImagesPlayer to Watch for Real Madrid: Mesut OzilEverybody knows about Real Madrid's three talented strikers, but somebody has to be feeding those dynamic weapons the ball. More often than not, it has been Angel Di Maria or Ozil. With the former still working to overcome a nagging injury, the onus will be on Ozil on Saturday.
Mallorca vs Real Madrid - La Liga: TV channel, team news
Real Mallorca vs Real Madrid Live - Spain: LaLiga - 2023-02-05