Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade Prediction: Red Star Belgrade will defeat Malmo FF 1-0 in their UEFA Europa League Matchday 7 encounter on Thursday, January 22, 2026, as the Serbian side’s defensive strength and full-strength squad should overcome the Swedish hosts who have scored only three goals while conceding twelve across six winless league-phase matches.
Match Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | UEFA Europa League (Matchday 7) |
| Date | Thursday, January 22, 2026 |
| Kick-off Time | 11:15 PM (Local Time) |
| Venue | Eleda Stadion, Malmo, Sweden |
| Malmo Position | 34th (1 point from 6 matches) |
| Red Star Position | 17th (10 points from 6 matches) |
| Malmo Form | LLLDLL |
| Red Star Form | WWWLL |
Key Facts
- Malmo FF remains winless in the Europa League this season with just one point from six matches.
- Red Star Belgrade sits in 17th position with ten points, placing them in the playoff qualification zone.
- The Swedish hosts have scored only three goals while conceding twelve in their league-phase campaign.
- Red Star has kept four clean sheets in their last five competitive matches across all competitions.
- This fixture marks the first-ever competitive meeting between these two clubs in UEFA competition.
- Malmo defender Martin Olsson will leave the club at the end of January when his contract expires.
- Dejan Stankovic takes charge of his first competitive match since returning as Red Star manager in December.
- Red Star has won three consecutive Europa League matches heading into this fixture.
- Malmo last played competitively on December 12, losing 2-1 away to Porto.
- The visitors have recorded four wins and two defeats in their last six competitive matches.
On This Page
Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade Preview and Prediction
Malmo FF faces a critical Europa League encounter against Crvena Zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) at the Eleda Stadion on Thursday evening.
The Swedish side desperately needs points to salvage their European campaign, while the Serbian champions aim to strengthen their position in the playoff qualification spots.
The hosts have struggled throughout the league phase, managing just one draw against Dinamo Zagreb in October.
Their defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed repeatedly, conceding twelve goals across six matches.
Manager Miguel Ramirez faces the challenge of motivating his squad despite their elimination from realistic qualification hopes.
Red Star Belgrade arrives in Sweden with momentum and confidence. The Serbian side has built their campaign on defensive organization and narrow victories.
Their recent 1-0 wins over Sturm Graz and FCSB demonstrate their ability to grind out results in tight matches.
The appointment of Dejan Stankovic as manager adds fresh energy to their squad.
Team News and Injuries
Malmo FF Injuries
Malmo enters this fixture with several injury concerns that limit their squad depth:
- Ali Taha – Currently unavailable
- Antonio Palac – Out of contention
- Ricardo Friedrich – Sidelined
The absence of these players reduces Ramirez’s tactical options.
The Swedish side has not played regular competitive football since the Allsvenskan season ended, with only Europa League fixtures providing match sharpness.
Red Star Belgrade Injuries
Red Star Belgrade reports a fully fit squad for this crucial away fixture.
Manager Stankovic can select from his entire roster, giving him maximum tactical flexibility. This fitness advantage could prove decisive against a depleted Malmo side.
Key Injuries That Could Shift the Game
Malmo’s injury situation weakens their already struggling squad. The absence of Friedrich, a goalkeeper, limits their options between the posts.
With Red Star arriving at full strength, the fitness disparity favors the visitors significantly. Malmo’s lack of competitive matches since December also raises concerns about match sharpness compared to Red Star’s recent friendly schedule.
Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade Lineups and Formations
Malmo FF Expected Lineup (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Olsen
Defense: Jansson, Duric, Rosler, Busanello
Midfield: Karlsson, Busuladzic, Johnsen, Lundbergh
Attack: Soumah, Haksabanovic, Ekong
Malmo typically employs a 4-3-3 formation that emphasizes width and attacking transitions.
However, their defensive frailties have undermined this approach throughout the Europa League campaign.
Red Star Belgrade Expected Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Matheus
Defense: Seol, Lekovic, Prado, Stankovic
Midfield: Ivanic, Elsnik, Krunic
Attacking Midfield: Kostov, Katai
Forward: Aranautovic
Red Star favors a 4-2-3-1 system that provides defensive stability through two holding midfielders while allowing creative freedom for Aleksandar Katai in the attacking third.
Tactical Analysis
Malmo’s tactical approach centers on quick transitions and wide play. Their 4-3-3 formation aims to stretch opposition defenses and create space for their attacking trio.
However, defensive organization has been their Achilles heel, with opponents exploiting gaps between their midfield and defensive lines.
Red Star Belgrade employs a more conservative tactical philosophy. Their 4-2-3-1 formation prioritizes defensive solidity, with two holding midfielders shielding the back four.
This structure has enabled them to keep multiple clean sheets. In attack, they rely on Katai’s creativity and quick counter-attacks rather than sustained possession.
The tactical battle will likely see Malmo attempting to impose their attacking style while Red Star looks to absorb pressure and strike on the break.
The visitors’ defensive discipline should frustrate the hosts, who lack the cutting edge to break down organized defenses.
Key Players to Watch
Malmo FF
Isaac Kiese Thelin (if available)
The Swedish striker provides Malmo’s primary goal threat. His physical presence and finishing ability make him crucial to their attacking hopes.
Sergio Pena
The Peruvian midfielder controls Malmo’s tempo and creates chances through his passing range.
His performance will determine whether the hosts can generate meaningful attacking opportunities.
Red Star Belgrade
Aleksandar Katai
The attacking midfielder serves as Red Star’s creative hub. His ability to unlock defenses with through balls and dribbling makes him the visitors’ most dangerous player.
Katai’s form will be crucial to breaking down Malmo’s defense.
Rade Krunic
The experienced midfielder provides defensive stability and distributes possession effectively.
His tactical intelligence helps Red Star maintain their defensive shape while initiating counter-attacks.
Expert Insight
Katai’s impact could prove decisive in this fixture. The Serbian playmaker has consistently delivered in crucial Europa League matches, combining technical skill with tactical awareness.
His ability to operate between the lines creates problems for opposing defenses. Against a Malmo side that has struggled defensively, Katai should find space to influence the match.
His connection with the forward line and timing of runs into the box make him a constant threat.
Current Standings
Europa League League Phase Table (Selected Positions)
| Position | Team | Matches | Wins | Draws | Losses | GF | GA | GD | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 | Crvena Zvezda | 6 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 10 |
| 34 | Malmo FF | 6 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 3 | 12 | -9 | 1 |
Red Star occupies 17th position, placing them in the playoff qualification zone. The top 24 teams advance to the knockout rounds, with positions 9-24 entering the playoff round.
Malmo sits 34th, effectively eliminated from qualification contention.
Head-to-Head Analysis
These two clubs have never met in competitive European competition.
This fixture represents their first encounter in UEFA tournaments, eliminating any historical context or psychological advantage.
Both teams approach this match without prior tactical knowledge from direct meetings.
Historical Performance Comparison
Malmo FF has participated in European competition regularly but has struggled in this season’s Europa League.
Their domestic dominance in Sweden has not translated to continental success.
The club’s European pedigree includes a European Cup final appearance in 1979, but recent campaigns have been disappointing.
Red Star Belgrade boasts a richer European history, including winning the European Cup in 1991.
The Serbian champions regularly compete in UEFA competitions and have developed expertise in navigating group stages.
Their experience in tight European matches gives them an advantage over less seasoned opponents.
Statistical Analysis
Malmo’s statistics reveal their struggles: three goals scored and twelve conceded across six matches produces a goal difference of -9.
Their single point came from a 1-1 draw with Dinamo Zagreb. They have lost five consecutive Europa League matches, including heavy defeats to Nottingham Forest (3-0) and Viktoria Plzen (3-0).
Red Star’s numbers demonstrate defensive resilience: five goals scored and five conceded across six matches.
Their three wins came by 1-0 margins against Sturm Graz, FCSB, and Lille. This pattern shows their ability to win tight matches through defensive organization and clinical finishing.
Where to Watch Live?
The match will be broadcast across multiple regions:
- United Kingdom & Ireland: TNT Sports 10, discovery+, discovery+ App
- United States: Paramount+, ViX
- Canada: DAZN Canada, fuboTV Canada
- Serbia: RTS 1, Arena 1 Premium
- Sweden: Disney+
- Middle East & North Africa: beIN Sports HD 7, beIN SPORTS CONNECT, TOD
- Australia: Stan Sport
Fans should check local listings for specific broadcast details and streaming availability in their region.
Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade Prediction
Red Star Belgrade should secure victory in this fixture. Malmo’s defensive vulnerabilities and lack of competitive sharpness create favorable conditions for the visitors.
Red Star’s full-strength squad, defensive organization, and recent form suggest they will control the match.
The visitors’ ability to keep clean sheets and win narrow matches aligns perfectly with this scenario.
Malmo’s attacking struggles—just three goals in six matches—indicate they will find scoring difficult against Red Star’s organized defense.
Predicted Score: Malmo FF 0-1 Red Star Belgrade
Red Star will likely adopt a patient approach, absorbing Malmo’s attacks before striking on the counter.
A single goal should suffice for the visitors to claim three valuable points and strengthen their playoff qualification position.
Read all Soccer Predictions.
FAQs
Where To Watch Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade Live?
Fans can watch Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade live on TNT Sports 10 and discovery+ in the United Kingdom, Paramount+ and ViX in the United States, DAZN Canada in Canada, RTS 1 in Serbia, and Disney+ in Sweden, with the UEFA Europa League Matchday 7 fixture broadcast across over 80 countries through official rights holders on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Who Will Win Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade Match?
Red Star Belgrade will win the Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade match because the Serbian side holds 17th position with ten points and arrives with a fully fit squad plus three consecutive Europa League victories, while Malmo sits 34th with just one point from six matches, has scored only three goals all season, and faces multiple injury absences including Ali Taha, Antonio Palac, and Ricardo Friedrich.
What is Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade Match Kick-Off Time?
The Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade UEFA Europa League match kicks off at 11:15 PM local time on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the Eleda Stadion in Malmo, Sweden, during the league phase Matchday 7 of the 2025/2026 season.
Are There Any Injuries in Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade Match?
Malmo FF has three players injured including Ali Taha, Antonio Palac, and goalkeeper Ricardo Friedrich who remain unavailable for selection, while Red Star Belgrade reports a fully fit squad with no injury concerns, giving manager Dejan Stankovic complete tactical flexibility and a significant fitness advantage heading into this crucial Europa League fixture.
What Is The Correct Score Prediction For Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade Match?
The correct score prediction for Malmo vs Red Star Belgrade is 0-1 in favor of Red Star Belgrade because the Serbian side has kept four clean sheets in their last five matches and won three consecutive Europa League games by 1-0 margins, while Malmo has lost five straight European fixtures, conceded twelve goals, and scored just three times across six league-phase matches.
Red Star Belgrade Standing with Points?
Red Star Belgrade stands in 17th position with 10 points in the UEFA Europa League league phase table after six matches, having won three games, drawn one, and lost two, with five goals scored and five conceded for a goal difference of zero, placing them firmly in the playoff qualification zone where the top 24 teams advance to knockout rounds.
Malmo Standing With Points?
Malmo FF stands in 34th position with just 1 point in the UEFA Europa League league phase standings after six matches, having drawn one game and lost five, with only three goals scored while conceding twelve for a goal difference of minus nine, effectively eliminating them from qualification contention with two matchdays remaining in the competition.