Malmö FF encountered no unexpected issues in the away leg against Iberia 1999, securing a 3:1 victory. Back on home soil, the Swedes are expected to generate even more scoring chances. Despite missing several key players due to injury, Malmö FF still possess sufficient quality in their squad.
In Tbilisi, Malmö FF capitalised on crucial moments early in both halves, with Taha Ali also finding the net after coming off the bench. Over the course of 90 minutes, the Swedish squad registered seven shots on target while conserving energy for their Allsvenskan fixture against IFK Norrköping, which they also won 3:1. In that domestic encounter, Hugo Bolin scored while Gabriel Busanello provided an assist, contributing to a total xG of 3.00 across the match.
The defeat against Malmö FF marked a third consecutive loss for Iberia since the start of the campaign. Although the squad managed a late goal through substitute Anes Rusevic, their tally of just four shots on target at home was far from convincing. Given their early-season struggles with possession and accuracy, a strong response in Sweden appears unlikely.
As expected, Malmö FF's superior individual quality and greater European experience should allow them to extend their advantage over Iberia. A comfortable home win would see them safely through to the next round.
