Rangers’ Europa League campaign kicks off this Thursday with a massive test as they travel to face Malmo FF at the Eleda Stadium. This is no ordinary match—the Swedish champions have a strong record against us, and with a revamped league phase format, every point matters in this tournament. Gers fans will be well aware of the importance of starting strong, especially with a tough trip to Scandinavia.
A History to Overcome
Malmo have given got the better of Rangers in recent years. Our record against them speaks volumes: four games played, and not a single victory to our name. Two losses in the Champions League qualifiers in 2021 (1-2 at Ibrox and 2-1 away in Sweden) and a painful 2011 exit (a 0-1 loss at Ibrox and 1-1 in Sweden) mean that Malmo will enter this match with a psychological edge. And just to rub salt into the wound, Malmo’s official social media channels have been quick to remind us of this, posting about their dominance over Rangers—a cheeky taunt we’ll be itching to silence on Thursday.
But this is a different Rangers side now, one that’s been improving week by week under Philippe Clement. The squad is finding its rhythm, and after a solid 3-0 win over Dundee in the Premier Sports Cup, the momentum is in our favour. To break the Malmo curse, we’ll need to be at our very best, but make no mistake—this team is capable of delivering.
Team Prediction for Rangers v Malmo
The lineup we expect to see from Clement is one full of energy and determination. Here’s how the Light Blues might take the field on Thursday:
GK: Butland
RB: Tavernier
CD: Souttar
CD: Propper
LB: Sterling
CM: Barron
CM: Diomande
AM: Lawrence
RW: Cerny
LW: Bajrami
CF: Dessers
This lineup combines experience with the dynamism of some newer faces. Dessers will be leading the charge up front, with Lawrence providing the link between the frontline and midfield. Rangers will need to be at their best, especially when dealing with a Malmo side that has the confidence of being 11 points clear at the top of the Allsvenskan.
High-Risk Game: Fan Warning Issued
As if the game itself wasn’t already highly anticipated, it has now been classified as a high-risk fixture by Swedish security services. Rangers fans travelling to the Eleda Stadium should be aware of potential disruptions. Reports suggest that fans of Malmo’s bitter rivals, Helsingborgs, have purchased tickets to the match, intending to support Rangers due to their friendship with our supporters. This situation has added a layer of tension to an already charged atmosphere.
Malmo’s head of security has expressed concern, but he has also assured that precautions are being taken to ensure safety for all attending. With around 1,000 Rangers supporters making the trip, it’s crucial for everyone to remain vigilant and safe throughout the experience.
A Test of Character
Thursday night is more than just a game; it’s a test of Rangers’ character. Can we shake off the ghosts of the past and finally overcome Malmo? Can Clement’s improving side rise to the occasion and put Malmo’s social media mockery to bed? It’s going to take everything we’ve got—high press, high energy, and every ounce of that fighting spirit we love to see from our team.
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