The Matchday 3 clash in the 2025/26 Europa League group stage between Malmö (Sweden) and Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia) will take place on October 23 at the Malmö New Stadium. Malmö vs. Dinamo Zagreb: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Malmö
The Scandinavians have had a poor start to the group stage, putting their chances of finishing in the top 24 in doubt. The team lost in both of the opening rounds and found themselves at the bottom of the standings. Apart from the Swedes, five other teams have yet to earn a single point. Malmö lost their first home match to Ludogorets (1-2) and then suffered a defeat away to Viktoria Plzeň. Furthermore, they finished the match in the Czech Republic with two players sent off during the game.
- In their last 18 Europa League matches, the Scandinavians have achieved just 3 wins (2 draws and 13 losses).
- At least 3 goals have been scored in 8 of Malmö's last 9 games in this European competition.
- The club has conceded two or more goals in 7 of their last 9 matches in this tournament.
Predicted lineup for Malmö (4-4-2)
Robin Olsen – Gabriel Busanello, Colin Rösler, Jens Stryger Larsen, Pontus Jansson – Adrian Skugmar, Otto Rosengren, Lasse Jönsson, Hugo Bolin – Emmanuel Ekong, Anders Christiansen.
Forward Daniel Gudjohnsen and midfielder Lasse Jönsson are out due to suspensions.
Dinamo Zagreb
The Balkans have made an excellent start to the main round of the Europa League. First, the club defeated Fenerbahçe at home (3-1), and then they won with the same score on neutral ground against Maccabi Tel Aviv. Notably, the team has 4 wins in their last 5 matches in this tournament. After two rounds, the Zagreb team topped the standings, leading six other opponents thanks to a better goal difference.
- At least 4 goals have been scored in Dinamo Zagreb's last 4 Europa League matches.
- Both teams scored in 5 of Dinamo's last 7 away matches in this tournament.
- Dinamo's uncompromising away streak in this European competition stands at 11 matches – 6 wins and 5 losses.
Predicted lineup for Dinamo Zagreb (4-2-3-1)
Ivan Nevistić – Bruno Goda, Scott McKenna, Kevin Théophile-Catherine, Moris Valinčić – Miha Zajc, Josip Mišić – Dejan Ljubičić, Arber Hodža, Mateo Lisica – Dion Beljo.
Referee
Willy Delajod (France)
Matches – 8 (International matches, 2024/25–2025/26);
Yellow cards shown (including second yellows) – 33;
Average yellow cards per match – 4.1;
Red cards shown – 1;
Average fouls per match – 26;
Penalties – 50%.
Malmö vs. Dinamo Zagreb: Match Prediction
The Swedes need to make changes in their play as the club has clearly failed in the opening matches of the Europa League group stage. Overall, there are also issues in the domestic league, where the team seems likely to finish outside the top three. Playing defensively makes no sense as they need points, which can only be achieved through attacking. Malmö can score, as they have done in 8 of their last 9 Europa League matches.
At the same time, Malmö's defense is far from their strongest line. The club has conceded in 16 of their last 18 matches in this European competition. I expect goals from the Croatians as well, who have an 11-match scoring streak in this tournament. Additionally, Dinamo has conceded in 8 of their last 10 Europa League games. Therefore, I believe that the best bet for this encounter is both teams to score.
My prediction – Both teams to score – yes
