Dinamo Zagreb vs. Malmo: Champions League Preview

Another five crucial Champions League qualifying ties taking place across Europe on Wednesday as ten more sides try to put themselves in pole position of making the group stages.

Having seen Arsenal struggle past a talented Udinese side last night, 2010 runners-up Bayern Munich now take centre stage and the Bundesliga heavyweights should have no trouble seeing-off FC Zurich over two legs.

Villarreal are also in action, they travel to Danish outfit OD, but my attention is on the match in Croatia where champions Dinamo Zagreb host Malmo and I’m very much with the home side.

Having romped to the title by 17 points last season, losing just twice in 30 matches, Dinamo have hit the ground running this time around too and will be desperate to secure their place among Europe’s elite.

Four wins in as many matches has seen Krunoslav Jurcic’s side open up a cushion at the summit already and, having got the better of Neftci and HJK en route to this stage in the Champion League, conceding just once in four matches, their Swedish opponents should hold no fears.

Dinamo suffered heartache this stage 12 months ago when succumbing to Sheriff on penalties but they showed just what they are capable of with some decent performances in the Europa League, including a 2-0 win over Villarreal, and will be eager for another shot at the big time.

Malmo travel to Croatia having beaten SPL champions Rangers in the previous round but quality was thin on the ground in both legs and they are struggling badly in the Swedish top flight, currently languishing in ninth place in Allsvenskan.

Just two wins and nine goals in 10 matches on their travels indicates Malmo’s limitations and one strike could be enough for Dinamo to land the spoils. The Croatians conceded just 12 goals last season on their way to the Prva HNL and are usually tough to break down.

2pts Back Dinamo Zagreb (vs. Malmo) @ 1.70 (Betfair)