PSG suffer heavy 3-0 defeat to Mallorca in first preparation match

Paris Saint-Germain suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat against Spanish second-division side Mallorca in their first preparation match for the upcoming season. The loss occurred at the San Moix stadium in Palma, with the team fielding a significantly younger squad than usual.

Many key players, including World Cup participants, were absent, having only recently returned from vacation or not yet joining the team. Coach Luis Enrique had to rely on very young players, such as 16-year-old Axel Koukaba and 17-year-old David Boly, alongside a few more experienced players like Matvey Safonov and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Notable absentees included captain Marquinhos and Portuguese players João Neves, Vitinha, and Nuno Mendes.

Despite a promising start where Ibrahim Mbaye hit the crossbar, PSG conceded the first goal in the 21st minute through Zito Luvumbo. Mallorca extended their lead to 2-0 before halftime with a goal from Jan Virgili. The deficit grew to 3-0 in the 51st minute when Antonio Raillo scored with a header from a corner, despite a substitution in goal for PSG.

The team's next challenge is a preparation match against Manchester United in Gothenburg, Sweden, followed by crucial title contests. PSG will face Aston Villa in the UEFA Super Cup next Wednesday in Salzburg and then play Lens in the Trophée des Champions on August 16. Their Ligue 1 season begins on August 23 against Stade Rennais.