Chapter 117: Role Playing
"0-2, Real Madrid suffer a home defeat, ending their perfect home record!"
"Winning streak stopped at eight! Mallorca—the giant killers!"
"After defeating Barcelona 2-0 at home in Round 17, Mallorca once again showcased their reputation as giant killers by beating Real Madrid 2-0 at the Bernabéu. Goals from Luke and Eto'o secured Mallorca's third consecutive win since the winter break. Since José's return, the team has been in remarkable form, racking up seven wins and two draws in their last nine matches. They have now climbed to fifth place in the standings, just five points behind fourth-placed Valencia! Despite Madrid's loss, they remain relatively unaffected thanks to Valencia's own defeat, maintaining a five-point lead over second-placed Deportivo La Coruña. However, for Mallorca, this victory fuels their hopes of breaking into the top four and recapturing the glory of the 1998-99 season."
For Mallorca, beating both Real Madrid and Barcelona in quick succession was a huge morale booster. The players were ecstatic, and the moment they returned to the dressing room, they erupted in celebration.
"We've beaten both Madrid and Barça! Who can stop us now? No one, that's who!"
José watched his players, smiling but saying nothing. He didn't try to suppress their euphoria or rein in their over-the-top statements. With such a young squad, it was only natural for them to get carried away after big wins. Better to let them release their excitement now rather than bottle it up.
After some thought, José decided to give the squad a well-earned day off. Mallorca had begun their mid-season training camp three or four days earlier than other clubs. That extra preparation had paid off with three straight wins, but it also meant the players had sacrificed part of their winter break. While José didn't see it as a big deal, now seemed like a good time to reward them.
"Alright, guys, settle down a bit. We're still in Madrid, after all. Let's not overdo it," José said with a grin, more in jest than as an actual reprimand.
His words only fueled the players' excitement, and another round of cheers echoed through the dressing room.