Malmoe FF vs Twente Prediction - Europa League Fixtures
The Europa League clash between Malmoe FF and Twente is set for 23 January 2025 at 17:45 at the Eleda Stadion. Both teams, currently in the lower echelons of the standings, sit 30th and 31st respectively, with just 4 points each, making this tie crucial for their positioning.
Malmoe FF, led by Henrik Rydström, will aim to capitalize on their recent form, boasting two wins and a draw in their last five matches (WLDWW). Their top scorer Erik Botheim, who has netted 4 goals, will be pivotal. However, Malmoe faces significant injury woes, with key players like Stefano Vecchia and Sead Haksabanovic sidelined.
On the other hand, Twente, managed by Joseph Oosting, had a mixed set of results recently (LLWWL). They feature a better lineup, though the potential transfer of Mitchell van Bergen and injury to their key players, including Sam Lammers, could impact their lineup. Their recent performance lacks consistency, conceding vital goals especially in the latter stages of the halves.
The game, under overcast clouds with temperatures at 4°C, promises to be a tight affair. Our match tips recommend betting on under 2.5 goals due to both teams’ recent defensive setups. Given Malmoe’s less effective strike force and Twente’s recent defensive lapses, this match could very well see fewer goals scored.
Malmoe FF vs Twente Prediction & Betting Tip
Given the match facts and recent performances of both teams, our recommended betting tip is:
| Malmoe FF vs. Twente Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 2.33 |
- Both Malmoe FF and Twente have had under 2.5 goals in a significant number of their Europa League matches, with Malmoe in 2 out of 6 and Twente in 5 out of 6.
- Twente is known for great defensive performances in the Europa League, which could limit the goals scored in this match.
- The game is set to be played under overcast conditions with a temperature of 4°C, which might favor a low-scoring game.
Malmoe FF vs. Twente Odds
Here’s a quick overview of the betting odds for the match:
| Malmoe FF vs. Twente Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Malmoe FF | 2.85 |
| Draw | 3.19 |
| Twente | 2.53 |
Twente comes into the match as the slight favourite, which is reflected in the bookmaker odds. Malmoe FF, while not as favoured, still offers appealing odds for those backing a home win.
With both teams closely matched in rankings and points, the draw odds might also attract attention. This balance suggests a tight contest.
Malmoe FF Team Analysis
Malmoe FF has had a mix of results in their last 5 games, with 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses. Here’s a look at their recent performance:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Slovan Liberec | Malmoe FF | 0-1 (Win) |
| Sparta Prague | Malmoe FF | 3-1 (Loss) |
| Malmoe FF | Galatasaray | 2-2 (Draw) |
| RFS | Malmoe FF | 0-1 (Win) |
| Malmoe FF | Torslanda IK | 5-2 (Win) |
Malmoe FF has shown decent attacking prowess, averaging 2.00 goals scored per match. Defensively, they’ve managed to keep 2 clean sheets in their last 5 games. The team is led by Henrik Rydström and will heavily rely on their top scorer Erik Botheim, who has scored 4 goals in this season’s competition.
Malmoe FF Key Players
Malmoe FF’s top scorer, Erik Botheim, who has netted 4 goals in the competition, will be crucial in their attacking strategy. His ability to score in key moments could be a deciding factor. Henrik Rydström’s squad will also rely heavily on Joakim Persson between the posts and the defensive solidity of Colin Rösler and Nils Zätterström. In midfield, the combination of Lasse Berg Johnsen and Otto Rosengren could dominate the play. Expect crucial battles between Søren Rieks and Twente’s Bart van Rooij, which could determine the match’s outcome.
Expected lineup for Malmoe FF:
- Goalkeeper: Joakim Persson
- Defenders: Jens Larsen, Colin Rösler, Nils Zätterström, Busanello
- Midfielders: Anders Christiansen, Lasse Berg Johnsen, Otto Rosengren, Hugo Bolin
- Forwards: Søren Rieks, Erik Botheim
Malmoe FF Suspensions & Injuries
Malmoe FF have a few significant injuries that could impact their performance in this match:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Stefano Vecchia | Back injury | Early February 2025 |
| Anton Tinnerholm | Groin injury | Early February 2025 |
| Sead Haksabanovic | Groin injury | Out for the season |
| Johan Dahlin | Cruciate ligament injury | Late May 2025 |
| Pontus Jansson | Knee injury | Early February 2025 |
These injuries, especially the long-term absences of Sead Haksabanovic and the experienced Johan Dahlin, might force Henrik Rydström to adjust his tactics. Their squad depth will be tested, and players like Nils Zätterström and Erik Botheim will need to step up.
Malmoe FF Tactics and Formation
Malmoe FF Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-4-2
- Key Forward: Erik Botheim
- Midfield Quartet: Anders Christiansen, Lasse Berg Johnsen, Otto Rosengren, Hugo Bolin
- Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games.
Malmoe FF will likely employ a 4-4-2 formation, balancing solid defence and strategic attacks. Coach Henrik Rydström will be relying heavily on Erik Botheim to lead the front line, given his top scorer status.
The midfield, powered by Christiansen and Berg Johnsen, will focus on breaking up Twente’s play and creating opportunities. Strong support from the backline, particularly with clean sheets in two of their last five games, will be crucial.
Expect Malmoe to start aggressively, using their ability to score in the 16-30 minute interval to their advantage.
Twente Team Analysis
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| NAC Breda | Twente | 2-1 (Loss) |
| Go Ahead Eagles | Twente | 3-1 (Loss) |
| Twente | Willem II | 6-2 (Win) |
| Werder Bremen | Twente | 2-3 (Win) |
| AZ Alkmaar | Twente | 1-0 (Loss) |
In their last five matches, Twente has shown a mixed bag of results with a record of two wins and three losses. They have been consistent in finding the back of the net, averaging 2.20 goals per game, but their defense has struggled, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last five outings.
Despite their defensive frailties, Twente is favored by bookmakers for the upcoming clash. Their recent significant victory over Willem II, where they scored six goals, showcases their potential in attack, but they need to tighten up defensively to improve their chances of progressing in the competition.
Twente Key Players
Expected lineup for Twente:
- Goalkeeper: Lars Unnerstall
- Defenders: Bart van Rooij, Bas Kuipers, Alec Van Hoorenbeeck, Anass Salah-Eddine
- Midfielders: Youri Regeer, Sem Steijn, Michal Sadílek
- Attackers: Ricky van Wolfswinkel, Mitchell Van Bergen, Michel Vlap
Key players to watch include Sam Lammers, who, despite being injured, is Twente’s top scorer with 2 goals. If he recovers in time, his attacking prowess could be crucial. Ricky van Wolfswinkel and Michel Vlap are also notable threats in the forward line, expected to create significant challenges for Malmoe FF’s defenders. Individual battles, especially in midfield where Michal Sadílek and Sem Steijn operate, could be pivotal in controlling the pace of the game.
Twente Suspensions & Injuries
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Younes Taha | Broken leg | Early February 2025 |
| Mees Hilgers | Unknown | Doubtful |
| Sam Lammers | Unknown | Early February 2025 |
Currently, Twente is dealing with several key injuries that might affect the team’s performance against Malmo FF. Notably, Sam Lammers, the team’s top scorer, is listed as doubtful. His presence in the attacking lineup could be missed if he is unable to recover in time. Additionally, Younes Taha’s broken leg means he will be sidelined, leaving a gap in the squad’s depth.
The unavailability of Mees Hilgers, depending on his recovery, could also weaken Twente’s defensive stability. These absences could impact the overall cohesion and effectiveness of the team, especially in areas requiring defensive and offensive contributions.
Twente Tactics and Formation
Twente’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Key Forward: Ricky van Wolfswinkel
- Midfield Trio: Youri Regeer, Sem Steijn, Michal Sadílek
- Defensive Strength: Known for defensive performances in the Europa League
- Notable Strategy: Strong attack during late-game intervals, especially the 61-75 and 76-90 minute time frames.
In their last five matches, Twente has consistently lined up in a flexible 4-2-3-1. This formation allows them to balance their defense while pressing forward effectively. The attacking trio of van Wolfswinkel, Van Bergen, and Vlap provides a potent forward threat, exploiting gaps in the latter stages of the game. Joseph Oosting’s emphasis on structured midfield play ensures that Twente can maintain possession and disrupt the opponent’s rhythm. Expect Twente to leverage their midfield strength and meticulous passing to control the tempo against Malmö FF.
