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Malmö FF endured a long summer of qualifying rounds in their attempt to reach the Champions League, only to fall short in the third round against Copenhagen. However, they made amends by comfortably dispatching Sigma Olomouc with a dominant 5-0 aggregate win, securing a Europa League berth.
The Swedish powerhouse has recent European experience, having featured in last year’s Europa League group stage, though they failed to progress. Determined to improve this time, Malmö enters the competition hoping to translate domestic resilience into continental success. In the league, however, their title challenge has faltered. Three consecutive draws — against Elfsborg (2-2), Degerfors (1-1), and Göteborg (0-0) — highlight a dip in form. Last weekend, they turned their attention to the Swedish Cup playoffs, facing minnows Olympic in an effort to restore momentum.
Ludogorets Chasing European Consistency
Bulgarian champions Ludogorets Razgrad are no strangers to European football, having qualified for multiple group stages across both the Champions League and Europa League in recent years. Their bid for the Champions League this season ended prematurely with a heavy defeat to Ferencváros (0-3 on aggregate). Still, they bounced back to claim a Europa League spot and are once again looking to prove themselves on the continental stage.
Domestically, Ludogorets remain a dominant force, having claimed the Bulgarian league title for 14 consecutive years. Their recent away fixture against rivals Levski carried major significance, as victory would propel them to the summit of the table. That pursuit of consistency at home could provide a springboard for success in Europe.
Key Players to Watch
For Malmö, young Icelandic forward Andri Gudjohnsen — who scored a brace against Elfsborg — will lead the line, supported by Emanuel Ekong, formerly of Empoli, who has already netted twice this season. Midfielder Hugo Bolin remains a crucial creative force, boasting four goals and three assists in the league. However, the Swedes will be without long-term absentees Botheim and Lajqi.
Ludogorets’ squad, built around experience and attacking flair, has the ability to trouble Malmö on the counter. The Bulgarian champions are especially dangerous from set pieces and fast transitions, a factor Malmö’s sometimes rigid defense will need to manage carefully.
Prediction
Malmö’s formidable home record in the Europa League — nine wins from their last eleven home fixtures — makes them strong favorites in this tie. Ludogorets, despite their domestic dominance, have struggled on the road in Europe, losing nine of their last thirteen away matches. With Malmö’s depth and attacking options, they should have enough to control proceedings and secure a convincing result.
Prediction: Malmö FF 3 – 0 Ludogorets
