The UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Round is set to ignite with a highly anticipated Scandinavian derby as Swedish champions Malmö FF host their Danish counterparts, FC København, in the first leg.
This pivotal clash at the Malmö New Stadium (Eleda Stadion) is a clash of two of the region’s footballing giants, with a potential spot in the lucrative Champions League group stage on the line.
The atmosphere is expected to be electric, as both sets of passionate fans will create a cauldron of noise, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Malmö comes into this tie with a strong recent run of form, having navigated their way through the earlier qualifying rounds with confidence. Their attacking style and solid home record will be key assets.
Meanwhile, FC København, with their vast European experience, will be looking to leverage their tactical discipline and key players to secure a crucial away goal. The winner of this two-legged affair will be just one step away from the Champions League group stage, making this a high-stakes battle for regional supremacy and financial reward.
Match Details
- Competition: UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Round (First Leg)
- Location: Malmö, Sweden
- Stadium: Malmö New Stadium (Eleda Stadion)
- Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2025
- Kick-off Time: 1:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM BST
- Indian Time (IST): 10:30 PM IST (Tuesday, August 5, 2025)
- Referee: João Pinheiro (Portugal)
Head-to-Head & Form Guide
The historical rivalry between these two clubs adds an extra layer of intrigue. While their last competitive meeting was back in 2019, the results have often been tight. Malmö’s solitary win in the last five games suggests that FC København has had the upper hand, but with the tie now over five years old, the current form of both teams is a more reliable indicator of their readiness for this clash.
- Last Five Competitive Meetings:
- Malmö FF: 1 win
- FC København: 3 wins
- Draws: 1
- Last Meeting: December 12, 2019: F.C. København 0–1 Malmö FF (UEFA Europa League)
Both sides have had a busy pre-season and have been involved in the Champions League qualifiers, giving them a competitive edge.
Malmö FF:
Malmö’s recent form is a testament to their domestic dominance and European ambition. They have looked strong defensively and clinical in attack. Their convincing wins in the earlier Champions League qualifying rounds have built significant momentum. Key players to watch include their top scorer in the qualifiers and their influential captain, whose leadership will be crucial in this high-pressure environment.
- July 30, 2025: Malmö FF 1–0 Rigas Futbola Skola (UEFA Champions League Qualifying)
- July 26, 2025: Brommapojkarna 2–3 Malmö FF (Swedish Allsvenskan)
- July 22, 2025: Rigas Futbola Skola 1–4 Malmö FF (UEFA Champions League Qualifying)
- July 19, 2025: Östers IF 0–2 Malmö FF (Swedish Allsvenskan)
- July 15, 2025: Malmö FF 3–1 Iberia Tbilisi (UEFA Champions League Qualifying)
FC København:
FC København has also had a strong start to their season, with a mix of domestic and European fixtures. Their results show a team capable of both grinding out victories and showcasing attacking flair. Their away form will be a key factor in this first leg, and they will be looking to rely on their experienced forwards and creative midfielders to breach Malmö’s defense and score a vital away goal.
- August 1, 2025: Fredericia 0–2 FC København (Danish Superligaen)
- July 29, 2025: Drita Gjilan 0–1 FC København (UEFA Champions League Qualifying)
- July 26, 2025: FC København 2–0 Vejle BK (Danish Superligaen)
- July 22, 2025: FC København 2–0 Drita Gjilan (UEFA Champions League Qualifying)
- July 18, 2025: Viborg FF 2–3 FC København (Danish Superligaen)
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Expect a tactical battle of wits between the two managers. Malmö will likely look to dominate possession at home and use their attacking width to create chances. The midfield battle will be crucial, and their ability to press high will be a key factor. FC København, on the other hand, may adopt a more cautious approach, absorbing pressure and looking to hit Malmö on the counter-attack. Their set-piece delivery and the individual brilliance of their star players will be vital if they are to get on the scoresheet. The key matchup will be between the two teams’ defensive midfielders, as their ability to win the ball and control the tempo will dictate the flow of the game.
How to Watch Malmö FF vs. FC København on TV, Live Stream
| Country | TV/Live Stream |
|---|---|
| Denmark | Viaplay Sport News |
| Sweden | N/A |
| United States | N/A |
| United Kingdom | N/A |
| India | N/A |
In Denmark, the match is available on Viaplay Sport News. For other regions, check local sports broadcasters or streaming services, such as beIN SPORTS in the Middle East and North Africa. It is also common for clubs to stream these qualifying matches on their official websites or YouTube channels.
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
