Kylian Mbappe’s highly anticipated La Liga debut for Real Madrid ended in frustration as the defending champions were held to a 1-1 draw by a resilient Real Mallorca on Sunday.

Madrid took an early lead through Rodrygo Goes, whose precise strike came after a slick exchange with Vinicius Junior. However, Mallorca, under new head coach Jagoba Arrasate, responded with a powerful header from Vedat Muriqi in the second half, securing a hard-earned point at Son Moix Stadium.

Mbappe, who joined the Spanish giants this summer, was unable to break through Mallorca’s defense, being consistently denied by goalkeeper Dominik Greif. Despite controlling much of the game, Madrid struggled to capitalize on their chances, with Mbappe and his teammates unable to find the decisive goal.

Real Madrid’s frustrations were compounded in stoppage time when Ferland Mendy received a red card for a high challenge on Muriqi, leaving Los Blancos to finish the match with 10 men.

Carlo Ancelotti fielded the same starting XI that secured victory in the UEFA Super Cup just days earlier, featuring Jude Bellingham in midfield behind the attacking trio of Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo. Despite their star-studded lineup, Madrid found it difficult to break down Mallorca’s well-organized defense.

Mallorca, facing a daunting challenge against the reigning champions, rose to the occasion. Arrasate’s side defended resolutely and posed a threat on the counterattack, nearly snatching a winner in the final stages of the match.

Madrid, who lost just once last season en route to the title, will be disappointed not to have started their title defense with a win, particularly given the arrival of Mbappe. Nevertheless, Mallorca’s determined display earned them a deserved share of the points.

As Madrid look to bounce back in their next fixture, questions will be asked about how they can better integrate their new star signing and break down defensively stubborn opponents.