Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the UEFA Champions League match
The result of the Malmö vs Sparta tie could be the most surprising in the Champions League play-off round. Bookmakers are favouring the Czech club due to the quality of their squad, but the Swedish team beat a formidable opponent in the previous round and will have resounding support at home.
Malmö
In early August, bookmakers had already underestimated Malmö in their matches against PAOK. In Thessaloniki, the Swedish side deservedly clinched a victory in extra time (4:3 and 18-12 in shots). The team consistently took the initiative (70%-30% in possession), and the winning goal by Anders Christiansen was a personal triumph for the coaching staff, who brought him off the bench. In the national championship, Malmö are comfortably ahead with an eight-point lead over the second place, allowing them to focus on European competition.
Sparta Prague
Sparta Prague had an impressive start to the season (eight wins in nine games), yet they faced minimal competition during this stretch. Based on the overall chances, they should not have progressed against FCSB (4:3 on aggregate), as the Romanian side created far more dangerous situations in Bucharest (9-14 in shots). It is worth noting that in their last four games, the Czech team conceded five goals, revealing several weaknesses in their defence.
Malmö - Sparta Prague Prediction
We are betting on a reliable handicap (0) on the home side. The Swedish team will at least avoid defeat at their field. If we consider Malmö's recent home matches in all competitions, they have only one loss in 14 games.
