Malmö FF - IFK Göteborg    (won)

Most remember me fading Malmö almost the entire season last year. However, things might be on the way to change.

The main reason is the total makeover of the club, with new chairman, sporting director, coach, and assistant, while also getting rid of toxic players and starting to bring in new ones - even if that is a work in progress still.

Notably, the new manager is Gaute Helstrup, a man who comes from Bodö/Glimt as an assistant but also has good history with Tromsö. He has been part of Bodö Glimts highly impressive methodology, with high press, high work ethics and building unity. He took another Bodö coach with him, as his assistant, Asmund Björkan, who is in charge of the offensive details, and work individually with players on details.

Last weekend, Malmö won against Degerfors, but Helstrup was not on the sideline yet. Now, against IFK Göteborg, he will officially lead the team himself on the sideline. With my ear against the ground, reportedly there has been a good focused vibe during training, with a lot of intensity, which perfectly reflects the path Malmö are about to embark on.

The vibe has changed. A turning point is on the horizon. The stadium is sold uot to see the first game with the new manager and it is also the Swedish "El classico". IFK Göteborg are in relegation battle, with opposite atmosphere. The coach is under pressure, the supporters are unhappy with the season, and soon they have to play European qualifiers. Göteborg are about to be hit with a tough reality soon, and it might start here.

With the hosts seemingly so inspired, at home, sold out arena, and a new playing style to be on display, I expect them to make life difficult for Göteborg who lacks confidence.

I play hosts with -1 AH here, but honestly straight win is also very appealing at around 2.00.

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