Willian Pacho and PSG Soundly Defeated by Spanish Second Division Team Mallorca
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) suffered a surprising 3-0 defeat against RCD Mallorca, a team competing in Spain's Second Division, during a preseason friendly.
- Ecuadorian defender Willian Pacho made his return after the 2026 World Cup, playing the final half-hour of the match with PSG already trailing significantly.
- Mallorca displayed superior fitness and tactical cohesion, capitalizing on PSG's numerous absences due to World Cup participants and the integration of reserve players.
Paris Saint-Germain, featuring Ecuadorian defender Willian Pacho, began their preseason campaign with an unexpected and resounding 3-0 loss to RCD Mallorca. The match, played at the Son Moix stadium as part of the traditional Trofeo Ciutat de Palma, saw the French champions fall to a team set to compete in Spain's Second Division for the 2026/27 season.
Willian Pacho made his first appearance since participating in the 2026 World Cup with Ecuador. He entered the game in the 61st minute, replacing Dimitri Lucea. By the time Pacho joined the match, Mallorca had already established a commanding 3-0 lead, effectively deciding the outcome. During his 30 minutes on the field, Pacho demonstrated defensive solidity, recording three defensive actions, two clearances, one block, and three ball recoveries, while maintaining a 96% pass accuracy.
The PSG squad fielded was heavily comprised of youth and reserve players. Manager Luis Enrique opted for a youthful lineup due to the staggered return of players who competed in the World Cup. This lack of cohesion and match fitness was evident against a Mallorca side that appeared physically better prepared and more integrated. The Spanish team capitalized on PSG's defensive errors and controlled the game, building a lead that they managed comfortably in the second half.
Mallorca's superior rhythm and preparation were clear from the outset. They dictated the pace and exploited PSG's vulnerabilities, securing a deserved victory. In contrast, the Parisian club generated little attacking threat, with only a few isolated actions, leaving a subdued impression in their first preseason test. PSG's focus now shifts to their next friendly against Manchester United on August 8, followed by their first official title match, the UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa on August 12.
Originally published by El Comercio in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.