Grp G: Malmo vs Austria Vienna Preview

Michorl was sent on a factfinding mission to Sweden to run the rule over Group G opponents Malmo last week and has reported back to head coach Karl Daxbacher with some detailed feedback.

Both sides had disappointing results in the first group fixtures, with AZ Alkmaar seeing off Malmo 4-1 and Vienna beaten 2-1 at home by Metalist Kharkiv.

"They (Malmo) go with a classic 4-4-2 system, they are tactically very disciplined and make few mistakes," Michorl told www.fk-austria.at.

"After losing possession, the team moves immediately behind the ball and presses.

"I would guess we are stronger defensively and maybe Malmo are a little better going forward but if we play to our potential then we have good chances to succeed in Sweden."

Michorl has also picked out key men for the Swedes, with the wing duo of Jiloan Hamad and Jimmy Durmaz and striker Ranegie Mattias catching his eye.

"Both winger are very fast and strong when they go one on one, but sometimes they can forget their defensive duties.

"On good days the pair can create a lot of danger. Mattias only arrived in the middle of August from Hacken and has already taken four goals in six games. He can look a little awkward but that is his playing style and he shields the ball cleverly. he is always good for a goal."

Malmo coach Richard Norling is eager to get a response from his side after their heavy defeat in Holland.

He knows home advantage and the lesser stature of Vienna mean a repeat of that scoreline is unlikely, but is expecting a tough workout.

"At this level, all teams are good, that much is clear to us," he said.

"While there is obviously a big difference between facing Alkmaar away and Austria Vienna at home, it is still a really good team that comes here.

"It is a team that wants to play football and there will be more passes through the midfield than we're used to on our home turf.

"They will come hard at us tomorrow [Thursday]."