Nottingham Forest host Malmö FF at the City Ground on Thursday in their UEFA Europa League 2025–26 Group Stage Matchday 5 fixture. Forest arrive on a high after a stunning 3-0 victory over Liverpool in the Premier League, which SoftFootball described as a season-defining win that revitalised the squad’s morale and confidence under Sean Dyche.
In Europe, Forest have collected four points in their last two games, including a hard-fought 0-0 draw at Sturm Graz and a 2-0 win over Porto, putting them in a strong position to advance.
Malmö FF, by contrast, remain winless in the Europa League, with one draw and three defeats. The Swedish side’s European away form has been poor this season, conceding multiple goals and failing to keep a clean sheet in their last five matches.
Domestically, Malmö finished sixth in the Allsvenskan, leaving the Europa League as their main route to European football next season. Their history against English clubs is also concerning, with eight losses in their last nine major European encounters.
Team News
Nottingham Forest face several absences. Chris Wood, Douglas Luiz, Ola Aina, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Dilane Bakwa, and Angus Gunn are all out due to injury. Sean Dyche may rotate the squad, with Arnaud Kalimuendo expected to lead the attack alongside Ryan Yates in midfield.
Sean Dyche said in a video shared on the club’s official X account that his players are trusting the tactics, rebuilding their connection, staying professional yet relaxed, and consistently delivering his ideas on the pitch.
Watch the video below:
Malmö FF will be without Arnor Sigurdsson, Erik Botheim, and Lasse Berg Johnsen. Daniel Gudjohnsen returns from suspension, providing a boost for their attack, while Melker Ellborg is expected in goal. Pontus Jansson will anchor their defence as they aim to keep Forest at bay.
Possible Lineups
Nottingham Forest (4-2-3-1): Victor; Savona, Milenkovic, Morato, Williams; Yates, Sangare; Ndoye, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Kalimuendo.
Malmö FF (4-3-3): Ellborg; Larsen, Jansson, Duric, Busanello; Rosengren, Lewicki, Skogmar; Ekong, Haksabanovic, Bolin.
SoftFootball’s Prediction
With home advantage, momentum from their Premier League resurgence, and Malmö’s continued struggles in Europe, Forest are strong favourites. SoftFootball suggests a win for Nottingham Forest, and both teams scoring is considered unlikely given Malmö’s scoring difficulties away from home.
Prediction: Nottingham Forest 2-0 Malmö FF
