First Place Sevilla is expected to continue their flight atop the Spanish La Liga as they take on 17th place Real Mallorca at Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán. Even after losing 1-2 last week to Zaragoza on the road (only their fourth loss this season), there was plenty of enthusiasm for Sevilla FC. The loss did not impede Sevilla from holding on to Spanish La Liga’s first place due to trip ups by Barcelona and Real Madrid. Sevilla v Real Mallorca kicks off at 11 AM EST.
Striker Luis Fabiano, who scored Sevilla's goal in their loss, was sent off near the end after exchanging “cat style” blows in a ridiculous display of sportsmanship with Zaragoza defender Carlos Diogo. Both players were handed five match bans this week. Sevilla was held to a goalless draw at third division Rayo Vallecano in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, but they are back at home this weekend which will help them against when they take on Real Mallorca.
Bet on Sevilla –275 v Real Mallorca +600 at WagerWeb.com
Sevilla’s loss last week snapped a 3 game winning streak that didn’t affect their league position since Barcelona missed the chance to join Sevilla on top of the Primera Liga after being held to a 1-1 draw at Getafe on Sunday. Barcelona missed several key players including Ronaldinho and Deco, both serving suspensions.
Real Madrid faired even worse, falling in a 2-0 defeat at Deportivo La Coruna. A first half free kick from Joan Capdevila and young striker Cristian's Primera Liga debut goal 10 minutes after the break ensured Real Madrid a failed move to level on points with arch rivals Barcelona.
"Without doubt the best thing for me has been the way we have pushed to try and get something out of the game," commented Coach Juan de Ramos. "This is the most important thing, the great attitude that the players have."
Sevilla is monster favorite over the sinking +600 Real Mallorca underdogs. For this match there is a +360 draw which seems as unlikely as a Real Mallorca winning outright. Bet Sevilla –275 all the way. The total over 2½ -118 at WagerWeb.com is very appealing, since Mallorca have averaged 3.5 goals on their last four matches (0-3, 1-2, 1-3, 1-3).
