Dani Olmo’s second half goal proved to be decisive as Barcelona defeated Mallorca to extend their lead at the top of La Liga to 7 points.
The Spanish midfielder scored just 41 seconds into the second half after Barcelona failed to score with any of the 24 attempt they had in the first half.
Mallorca goalkeeper Leo Roman produced fine saves to deny both Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres before the break, as the visitors hung on despite being under immense pressure from Barcelona.
At a point, Leo Roman and his defenders denied Barca inside the penalty area four times in the space of 15 seconds.
Though Mallorca only had 22% possession in the first half, they did get in behind Barcelona’s high defensive line on three occasions and were denied an opener by the offside flag.
At the beginning of the second half, Dani Olmo eased the growing anxiety inside the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys with a cool left-footed finish that went beyond Leo Roman.
Hansi Flick – who made seven changes to his side with an eye on Saturday’s Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid – introduced Raphinha and Fermin Lopez after the break as Barca searched for a second goal, but Roman produced 11 saves in total to keep his side in it.
Barcelona took 40 shots – the most any La Liga side has attempted this season – while Mallorca failed to register an effort on target.
Barcelona now hold a seven-point lead at the top of the table, with closest challengers Real Madrid playing Getafe on Wednesday.
Europa League-chasing Mallorca remain seventh with 44 points, one ahead of Celta Vigo who have played one game fewer.