"It's a vital game for us to win LaLiga," said Ancelotti in the pre-match press conference. The leaders were well aware of this and put in a serious performance to take all three points in Mallorca. A goal from Tchouameni after a powerful shot from the edge of the area in the 48th minute sealed an important victory, in which Real Madrid, due to the number of clear-cut chances they had, could have won with a greater advantage.

The first half ended goalless, although both teams had real chances to score after the half-hour mark. The first to try were the home side, with Raíllo's header from a corner forcing Lunin into a fine save in the 31st minute. The visitors' response came two minutes later when Bellingham's shot from the edge of the area hit the crossbar.

Tchouameni scores
The start of the second half was very different. It was just a minute after Bellingham's 47th minute shot was deflected by goalkeeper Rajkovic that the leaders would go ahead. Tchouameni controlled a few metres outside the area, raised his head and hit a powerful right-footed shot that hit Morlanes and surprised the goalkeeper. 0-1. Our team had now breached Mallorca's tight defensive system and came close to extending the gap after Brahim's personal move, which ended with a left-footed shot from inside the box and a save from Rajkovic.

More chances on goal
Brahim had an even clearer chance in the 61st minute. It came from a great combination of play with Modrić feeding him in the six-yard box, but Rajkovic, already on the ground, managed to save the effort with his right foot. Our team were deserving of a goal again, but had no joy. This would be reaffirmed in the 72nd minute. Valverde picked up the rebound from Vini Jr. ' s personal move and his left-footed shot, with the goalkeeper already beaten, was cleared off the line by Nastasic.

16th clean sheet in LaLiga this season
Mallorca pressed for an equaliser in the closing minutes, but Madrid produced another solid display to remain unbeaten for the 16th game of 31 in the current campaign. Ancelotti 's men are now focused on the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, which they will play on Wednesday against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium (9:00pm CEST).