Malmo will aim to continue their resurgence when they travel to Kalmar in the Allsvenskan on Monday evening.

The visitors have won three league matches in succession to climb into the top six and close the gap on the European qualification places, while Kalmar continue their fight to establish themselves back in Sweden’s top flight following promotion.

With Malmo carrying momentum but Kalmar boasting one of the strongest home records in the division, this has all the ingredients of a closely contested encounter.

Kalmar’s home form offers hope

Kalmar have endured an inconsistent return to the Allsvenskan, collecting 13 points from their opening 12 matches to sit 12th in the standings.

Toni Koskela’s side suffered a 2-0 defeat away to Hammarby last time out, but they responded well earlier this month by beating Örgryte 3-0. More importantly, their performances at Guldfågeln Arena have been excellent, with four victories from six home league fixtures giving them the fourth-best home record in the division.

That form will give Kalmar confidence against one of Sweden’s biggest clubs as they continue their bid to avoid an immediate return to the Superettan.

Anthony Olusanya is expected to lead the attack after scoring four goals this season, while Arsenal loanee Charles Sagoe Jr should also start in the final third. Malcolm Stolt remains unavailable through injury.

Malmo finding championship-winning rhythm

After a frustrating start to the campaign, Malmo are beginning to resemble the side that lifted the Allsvenskan title in 2024.

Gaute Helstrup’s team have recorded three consecutive league victories, including an emphatic 4-0 win over Goteborg, and now sit sixth in the table. Although they remain some distance behind leaders Sirius, they are only two points adrift of the European qualification places.

The visitors have looked increasingly dangerous in attack, with Erik Botheim enjoying another outstanding campaign. The Norwegian striker has netted 14 goals in 19 appearances across all competitions, while Sead Haksabanovic has contributed seven goals of his own.

Malmo will again be without experienced duo Anders Christiansen and Pontus Jansson, but otherwise head into Monday’s match with a settled squad and growing confidence.

Verdict: Home advantage could prove decisive

Malmo undoubtedly possess greater quality and arrive in stronger form, but Kalmar’s outstanding home record cannot be overlooked.

The hosts have made life difficult for almost every visiting side this season, while Malmo have been less convincing away from home than at Eleda Stadion. The visitors should enjoy plenty of possession, but Kalmar have enough organisation and confidence on their own ground to earn a valuable point.

Tip

Draw.