The Champions League qualifying rounds bring us an exciting clash between Malmo and PAOK.
Both teams aim to secure a spot in the prestigious group stage. Here’s a detailed preview of the match, including predictions, team news, and more.
Current Form
Malmo
Malmo currently sits four points clear at the top of the Allsvenskan with a game in hand.
Despite their strong domestic performance, their recent form has been inconsistent, suffering defeats to Mjallby and Sirius.
They had a shaky second leg against KI, losing 3-2, marking their third loss in five matches.
Malmo missed out on European football last season, making this match crucial for their ambitions.
PAOK
PAOK had an impressive run in the Europa Conference League last season, reaching the quarter-finals.
They come into this match after defeating Borac Banja Luka in the second qualifying round with aggregate scores of 3-2 and 1-0.
Unlike Malmo, PAOK has had less competitive football recently, which might affect their performance.
Team News
Malmo
Despite their recent defeat, Malmo’s coach Henrik Rydstrom is likely to stick with a similar lineup.
Key players such as Sebastian Jorgensen and Isaac Kiese Thelin may start on the bench.
The probable starting XI includes Friedrich; Larsen, Jansson, Olsson, Busanello; Johnsen, Pena; Bolin, Christiansen, Rieks; Botheim.
PAOK
PAOK’s coach Razvan Lucescu is also expected to make minimal changes. Jonny Otto, who started at right-back in the previous match, may retain his place.
Andrija Zivkovic could be recalled on the right flank. The expected lineup includes Kotarski; Otto, Troost-Ekong, Koulierakis, Baba; Schwab, Ozdoev; Despodov, Murg, Taison; Thomas.
Prediction
Considering the current form and recent performances, this match is expected to be a closely contested affair.
Malmo’s competitive edge might give them an advantage, but PAOK's experience in European competitions cannot be underestimated. A low-scoring draw seems likely.
Our Prediction: Malmo 1-1 PAOK
PAOK 
Malmö 
