European football takes centre stage once again as the Europa League group stage continues with a full slate of compelling fixtures. The action focuses on the 8pm GMT kick-offs, featuring British clubs Nottingham Forest and Rangers in crucial home ties.
Nottingham Forest Host Malmö in Nostalgic Clash
The City Ground is the setting for a match steeped in history as Nottingham Forest welcome Swedish side Malmö FF. The encounter evokes memories of the 1979 European Cup final, where Trevor Francis headed the only goal to secure eternal glory for Brian Clough's side against the same opponents. The clubs also met in Forest's last European campaign during the 1995-96 UEFA Cup.
Forest enter the match in high spirits following a stunning 3-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday. In contrast, Malmö have not played a competitive match since the Swedish league season concluded on 9 November, with the team finishing a disappointing sixth.
The teams for this historic fixture have been confirmed. Nottingham Forest line up with John Victor in goal, supported by the likes of Yates, Hudson-Odoi, and Kalimuendo. Malmö's starting eleven includes Stryger Larsen, Jansson, and Haksabanovic. The referee for the match is Harm Osmers from Germany.
Rangers in Desperate Need of Victory Against Braga
At Ibrox, the situation is critical for Rangers. After the first half of the league phase, the Glasgow club finds itself rock bottom of the 36-team standings with zero points and only one goal scored. To have any hope of securing a playoff spot, they must finish at least 24th, making a victory against Portuguese side Braga essential.
Rangers have already experienced defeat to a player named Braga this season, when striker Claudio Braga helped Hearts to a 2-0 win over them in September. They will be keen to avoid a similar outcome tonight.
The team sheets show Butland in goal for Rangers, with Tavernier, Danilo, and Chermiti also starting. Braga counter with a side featuring Joao Moutinho and Ricardo Horta. Allard Lindhout of Holland is the appointed match official.
Elsewhere in the Europa League
The action isn't confined to Britain. In the earlier kick-offs, Aston Villa were coasting towards a victory over Young Boys, thanks to a brace from Donyell Malen. With group leaders Midtjylland losing 1-0 to Roma, Villa were set to go level on points at the top of the league phase standings.
Meanwhile, Celtic were on the verge of a impressive 2-1 away win at Feyenoord, a result that would see Martin O’Neill sign off as interim manager in style. The match saw a late goal from Benjamin Nygren to make it 3-1 to Celtic, with only stoppage time remaining.
With nine matches kicking off at 8pm GMT, the night promises drama, goals, and significant ramifications for the evolving league table.
