Malmo FF vs Panathinaikos Match Recap - Nov 6, 2025

Malmo FF Falls Short as Panathinaikos Snatches Late Victory in Europa League Clash

Panathinaikos secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Malmo FF at the Eleda Stadion, with Filip Đuričić scoring the decisive goal in the 85th minute. This late strike not only salvaged three points for the Greek side but also deepened Malmo's woes in the UEFA Europa League, leaving them with just one point from four matches.

Malmo entered this match desperate for a win after a string of disappointing results, including a recent draw against BK Hacken and a heavy loss to Hammarby. Their form has been erratic, with only one win in their last five matches. The pressure was palpable as they faced a Panathinaikos team that had struggled to find consistency but had shown glimpses of promise in domestic play.

From the outset, Malmo appeared to control the game, boasting 57% possession and outshooting Panathinaikos with three total shots compared to none from their opponents. Yet, despite their dominance in possession and attempts, they failed to convert their chances into goals. The home side's inability to capitalize on their opportunities has been a recurring theme this season, highlighted by their 0.16 expected goals (xG) in this match.

Panathinaikos, on the other hand, seemed content to absorb pressure and wait for their moment. Their recent form had been shaky, with a loss to Volos NFC just days prior. However, they managed to keep Malmo at bay, thanks in part to a solid defensive performance led by Alban Lafont, who made two crucial saves. The Greek side's strategy paid off when they finally broke the deadlock late in the game.

The turning point came in the 85th minute when Đuričić found the back of the net, capitalizing on a rare opportunity. This goal not only secured the win but also marked a significant moment for Panathinaikos, who had been searching for a spark after their inconsistent performances in both domestic and European competitions. The goal was a testament to their resilience, proving that sometimes it only takes one moment to change the course of a match.

Malmo's coach, Henrik Per-Erik Rydström, must now grapple with the reality of his team's struggles. With just one point from four matches in the group stage, their chances of advancing are slim. The players seemed to lack confidence, and despite their efforts to dominate possession, they were unable to translate that into meaningful chances. Emmanuel Ekong, who had been a bright spot in previous matches, was notably quiet, failing to make an impact when it mattered most.

For Panathinaikos, this victory could serve as a turning point. After a rocky start to their Europa League campaign, they now have six points and can look ahead with renewed optimism. The win against Malmo not only boosts their standing but also provides much-needed momentum as they prepare for their next match against Sturm Graz.

Reflecting on my pre-match prediction, I anticipated Malmo would finally find their footing at home. Instead, it was Panathinaikos who emerged victorious, showcasing their ability to seize opportunities when they arise. This match serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football; even when one team appears dominant, it can be the other that walks away with all three points.

As both teams look ahead, Malmo must regroup and find a way to convert their possession into goals if they hope to salvage anything from this Europa League campaign. Meanwhile, Panathinaikos will aim to build on this victory and continue their push for advancement in the tournament. The stakes remain high as both teams navigate through this challenging group stage, but for now, it is Panathinaikos who can celebrate a hard-fought victory that may just reignite their season.