Sigma Olomouc vs Malmo FF Prediction & Betting Tips (28 August)

Sigma Olomouc return to continental competition with a sense of unfinished business. Their last European outing dates back to 2018, when they were outclassed by Sevilla in a playoff tie. This time, under the guidance of Tomas Janotka, they arrive with momentum and a squad that’s quietly building chemistry. A recent 1-0 win over Zlin lifted them into the top four of the Czech league, and the late goal from Daniel Vasulin underscored their resilience. Despite injury setbacks to key players like Dele Israel and Jan Kliment, the addition of Muhamed Tijani on loan from Slavia Prague has added a new dimension to their attack. With Jan Kral and goalkeeper Jan Koutny returning from suspension, Sigma’s spine looks more stable heading into this crucial fixture.

Malmo FF, meanwhile, are navigating a season of mixed fortunes. After a bruising 5-0 defeat to Copenhagen in the Champions League qualifiers, Henrik Rydstrom’s men bounced back with a commanding 4-0 win over Halmstad. That result was a much-needed morale boost, especially after a 3-1 domestic loss to Mjallby that left them trailing in the Allsvenskan title race. Sead Haksabanovic has emerged as a talisman, netting twice in the first leg against Sigma and proving lethal in the final third. The return of Gabriel Busanello from suspension adds width to their play, while Robin Olsen’s experience between the posts continues to be a steadying force in a squad dealing with long-term injuries to Erik Botheim and Johan Dahlin.

The first leg saw Malmo dominate with a 3-0 win, but the scoreline belied moments of vulnerability. Sigma created early chances, with Filip Slavicek and Abdoulaye Sylla testing Olsen’s reflexes. A poor clearance from Koutny gifted Malmo their opener, and defensive lapses compounded the Czech side’s woes. Yet, Sigma showed flashes of danger, including a disallowed goal from Daniel Vasulin due to offside. If Janotka’s men can tighten their backline and capitalize on set pieces, they have the tools to trouble Malmo in the return leg. The Eleda Stadium may have been unforgiving, but the Czech crowd will be eager to tilt the balance.

Expect a more balanced contest in the second leg. Malmo’s European pedigree gives them the edge, but Sigma’s hunger and home advantage could narrow the gap. With Haksabanovic likely to find the net again and Sigma pressing for pride, a 2-1 scoreline in favor of Malmo feels plausible. It’s a result that would see the Swedes through, but not without a few nervous moments. This isn’t just a playoff—it’s a clash of trajectories: one club trying to reclaim continental relevance, the other desperate to prove they belong.