Spanish leader Real Madrid started the second half of the season with a hard-fought victory over Mallorca. Royal struggled with the visitors for a long time, eventually bowing out to defender Antonio Rüdiger’s fierce header. The relief will be huge, especially for Brahim Díaz.

Real spent the entire first half attacking the stubbornly defending Islanders. Fifteen minutes into the first half, Díaz had a great chance to open the score. After Mallorca goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic only saved half of Rodrygo’s shot, the 24-year-old midfielder received the ball on a silver platter, but to his dismay, his header went wide.

Rüdiger saved Real ten minutes after Díaz’s miss. The tall German player convincingly headed Luka Modric’s corner, who kindly sent the ball wide of the post: 1-0. The lead was then no longer in danger, meaning Real started the calendar year with a small but deserved victory.

The victory means Real is at least 3 points ahead of Girona. The surprising number two will play the evening’s top match against number three Atlético Madrid, who are seven points behind numbers one and two. No. 4 Barcelona, ​who enter the winter break level on points with Atlético, will play away to Las Palmas on Thursday night.