The players trudged off the pitch, heads down as they walked towards the tunnel. Baraja walked past Izan, briefly meeting the youngster's gaze before disappearing into the tunnel.
"It's been all Valencia so far," the commentator summed up. "But Mallorca's defense, and especially Pedrag Rajkovic, are putting on a masterclass. Something has to give in the second half."
The Mallorca fans celebrated the goalless draw at the break as if it were a victory, applauding their team's grit.
Meanwhile, the Valencia crowd buzzed with mixed emotions—admiration for their side's dominance yet anxious murmurs about the inability to capitalize. The stage was set for a dramatic second half.
...
The Valencia dressing room was tense, the air thick with frustration and silence, save for the distant hum of the crowd outside.