The Europa League returns with an intriguing clash between Malmö FF and Crvena Zvezda at Eleda Stadion on Thursday evening. The Swedish side are currently 34th in the League Phase standings, while the Serbian champions sit 17th after six rounds. With the group stage nearing its conclusion, both teams will be eager to end their campaigns on a positive note, though their situations could not be more different. Malmö are fighting to salvage pride after a disappointing run, whereas Crvena Zvezda are looking to consolidate their mid-table position and maintain their strong defensive form.

Malmö FF’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Malmö FF have endured a difficult Europa League campaign, collecting just one point from their first six matches. Their only positive result came in a 1-1 draw against Dinamo Zagreb on Matchday 3. Since then, the Swedish side have struggled to find consistency, scoring only three goals in total while conceding twelve. Their most recent European outing ended in a 2-1 defeat to Porto on December 11, a result that further underlined their defensive vulnerabilities.

Domestically, Malmö’s form has also been inconsistent. In their last five matches across all competitions, they have recorded one win, one draw, and three defeats, averaging 0.8 goals scored and 1.6 conceded per game. The team’s home record offers little comfort, with only two victories at Eleda Stadion since mid-September. However, one notable trend is that over 0.5 goals have been scored in the second half of each of their last 15 matches, suggesting that Malmö tend to grow into games as they progress.

• Ranking in Europa League: 34th


• Last 5 matches: 1 win, 1 draw, 3 defeats


• Average goals scored: 0.8 | Average goals conceded: 1.6


• Lost at half time in their last 3 matches


• Over 0.5 goals in the second half in their last 13 Europa League games

Despite their struggles, Malmö will be motivated to deliver a strong performance in front of their fans. Anything less than a win would confirm their elimination from European competition this season, so expect them to approach this fixture with determination and urgency.

Crvena Zvezda’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Crvena Zvezda arrive in Sweden in far better shape. After a slow start to their Europa League campaign, where they collected just one point from their first four matches, the Serbian side have turned things around impressively. They have won their last three European fixtures — all by a 1-0 scoreline — against Sturm Graz, FCSB, and Lille, showcasing their defensive solidity and ability to manage tight games.

In domestic competition, Zvezda’s form has been equally strong. Their last outing before the winter break was a commanding 4-0 victory over Mladost Lučani on December 20. Over their last five matches in all competitions, they have registered three wins, one draw, and just one defeat, averaging 1.6 goals scored and 0.2 conceded per game. The team’s defensive record is particularly impressive — they have not lost at half time in their last 14 matches and have kept things tight away from home, losing only two of their last seven road games.

• Ranking in Europa League: 17th


• Last 5 matches: 3 wins, 1 draw, 1 defeat


• Average goals scored: 1.6 | Average goals conceded: 0.2


• Over 0.5 goals in the second half in 25 of their last 27 matches


• Haven’t lost at half time in 18 of their last 20 away games

Crvena Zvezda’s recent run of clean sheets and disciplined performances make them a tough opponent for any side. Their ability to control matches and strike efficiently in the second half could once again prove decisive in this encounter.

Malmo vs Crvena Zvezda Prediction and Tactical Overview

This fixture brings together two teams with contrasting fortunes. Malmö’s attacking inefficiency has been their undoing throughout the competition, while Crvena Zvezda’s defensive organization has been their greatest strength. The Swedish side will likely try to press early and take advantage of home support, but their tendency to concede first and struggle before halftime could leave them vulnerable against a well-drilled opponent.

Crvena Zvezda, on the other hand, are expected to approach the game with patience, relying on their compact shape and quick transitions. Given their recent record of narrow victories and Malmö’s low scoring rate, this match could be another low-scoring affair. The statistics also point toward a cautious contest, with both teams often seeing goals arrive in the second half rather than early on.

Overall, the balance of form and momentum clearly favors the visitors. Malmö’s defensive lapses and lack of cutting edge in attack make it difficult to see them breaking down a side that has conceded just once in five matches. Crvena Zvezda’s consistency and confidence should give them the upper hand in this Europa League clash.

Malmo vs Crvena Zvezda prediction by BetMines:
Crvena Zvezda win (2) with 52% probability.