Osasuna vs Mallorca preview - Monreal: Real result a turning point

Posted Saturday, February 05, 2011 by PA

Osasuna will look to build on last weekend's shock victory over Real Madrid when they welcome Real Mallorca to the Reyno de Navarra stadium.

Jose Antonio Camacho's side became only the second club to defeat Madrid in the league this season after Javier Camunas' second-half strike earned Osasuna a 1-0 win.

That was the Pamplona club's first victory since November and helped them move up to 16th place, three points above the relegation zone.

Now Osasuna will be hoping to increase that gap when they take on a Mallorca side that are on a three-match losing streak.

Defender Nacho Monreal, who is available again after a month out injured, said: "I think the victory over Real Madrid has marked a turning point. If we get things right, we are capable of beating anybody."

The Spain international added: "The motivation is different (against Mallorca), but we have to be aware of what we're playing for.

"If we get the three points we will move away from the relegation zone and put another team down there.

"We played a great game against Real Madrid and got three very important points, but the three points this weekend are, if anything, even more important."

Mallorca have slipped to 11th spot following their defeats to Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid and Sporting Gijon, during which run Michael Laudrup's men have conceded eight goals and failed to score.

Laudrup said: "To lose 4-0 at home (to Sporting) was a big blow to us all. We have to put that behind us and get back on track."