Barcelona(Spain), August 17, 2025(HS): Defending La Liga champions FC Barcelona launched their title defense in style on Saturday night, brushing aside Mallorca with a commanding 3–0 victory at Son Moix.

Raphinha and Ferran Torres struck within the opening exchanges to silence the home crowd and seize control of the contest. The finishing touch came deep into stoppage time, when 18-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal curled in a dazzling strike that underlined his growing reputation as Europe’s brightest star in the making.

But the spectacle was overshadowed by refereeing controversy. Mallorca were reduced to nine men following two dismissals that left captain Raiolla fuming, as he branded the officiating “inexplicable” in a blistering post-match outburst.

For Barcelona, the victory sends a powerful signal across Spain: They are not easing off after last season’s crown. With rivals Real Madrid watching closely, the Catalan giants have already thrown down the gauntlet at the very summit of the league.

Mallorca, on the other hand, are left licking their wounds, languishing at the foot of the table and facing an uphill climb after an ill-tempered start to their campaign.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar