Malmo vs Rangers

Eleda Stadion is the venue as Malmo and Rangers go head-to-head in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League third-round qualifying tie.

Reigning Swedish titleholders and current table-toppers, Malmo, have already overcome two qualifying rounds, ousting Riga 2-1 on aggregate (1-0 H, 1-1 A) before claiming a hard-fought 4-3 aggregate triumph over HJK Helsinki (2-1 H, 2-2 A). Having scored in all four qualifiers, Malmo will be confident of finding the net here, though their defensive game requires some improvements. Indeed, a return of one clean sheet from four qualifying matches suggests defensive vulnerability. Seeking their first Champions League group stage appearance following a six-year hiatus, the ‘Himmelsblått’ head into proceedings in high spirits, encouraged by a nine-game unbeaten run on home turf in all competitions (W8, D1). Delivering action from the get-go, Jon Dahl Tomasson’s men have got on the scoresheet before half-time in each of their last three Champions League qualifiers.

On the other hand, Rangers ended Celtic’s nine-year tenure in Scottish football in sublime fashion last season, cruising to the Premiership title without a single defeat. A truly inspirational season earned the ‘Gers’ the right to join the Champions League qualifying fray in the third round. The last time Rangers appeared in the Champions League group stage was in 2010/11, so motivation won’t be lacking. Worryingly, though, the Scottish heavyweights will be hoping that football does not follow the script, considering their last attempt to reach the Champions League group phase was ended in this exact round by Malmo, nonetheless. However, confidence must be brimming within the Rangers camp now, as they take the field on the back of a 3-0 victory over domestic rivals Livingston to begin the new domestic season. Additionally, Steven Gerrard’s men completed the last domestic campaign with a staggering +79 goal difference (GF:92, GA:13).

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