Malmo FF vs Galatasaray Prediction: 12/12/2024

Malmö is struggling in the Europa League and currently sits in 30th place, trailing the 24th spot, which is the last qualifying position for the playoffs. However, it’s not all over for the Swedish team, as they managed a 1-2 victory over Qarabag on matchday 2. Unfortunately, apart from that win, Malmö has faced defeats against Rangers (0-2), Olympiakos (0-1), Besiktas (2-1), and Ferencvaros (4-1). On the domestic front, Malmö recently secured their second consecutive title, with the Swedish league wrapping up on November 10.

Galatasaray, considered one of the dark horses in the Europa League, is currently in 4th place, just one point ahead of 9th place, which would force them into a playoff. The Istanbul side has been strong at home, winning matches against PAOK (3-1), Elfsborg (4-3), and Tottenham (3-2). However, they have struggled away, drawing against RFS (2-2) and Alkmaar (1-1) in their most recent matches. Domestically, Galatasaray remains undefeated, with 11 wins and 2 draws, but they still face pressure from Fenerbahce, who are 3 points ahead. After a 2-2 draw with Eyupspor, Galatasaray will travel to Sivasspor this weekend.

Malmö will be without their first-choice goalkeeper Dahlin, as well as long-term injury absentees Moisander, Tinnerholm (defenders), Holmquist Vecchia (midfielder), and Haksabanovic (forward). Forward Kiese Thelin, who has scored 15 goals and provided 4 assists in the league, is the team’s main offensive threat, although he started on the bench in the last Europa League match. Another key attacker, Botheim, who scored against Ferencvaros, has contributed 12 goals and 6 assists in the league. Winger Bolin, with 10 goals and 3 assists, is also a key player.

Galatasaray will be missing important defenders Ayhan and Jakobs, along with influential attacker Icardi, who is sidelined. Additionally, Hungarian international Sallai is not eligible for the Europa League. Nigerian striker Osimhen, who has scored 6 goals and provided 3 assists in the league, along with 3 goals in the Europa League, continues to shine. He has partnered well with Mertens (3 goals and 3 assists) and Batshuayi (4 goals and 2 assists). Akgun, the left-winger, has been the most effective player in the Europa League with 4 goals.

Prediction

This match has significant implications for both teams, with Malmö fighting to stay in the competition and Galatasaray aiming for a playoff spot. Despite their differing goals, both teams have shown a tendency to draw in the Europa League, with Malmö recording six draws in their last 12 home games, and Galatasaray securing a solid position in the group.

Prediction: Malmö FF 1 : 2 Galatasaray