Malmö FF made a bold statement in their UEFA Champions League qualifying campaign with a convincing 4:1 victory over Latvian champions RFS in Rīga. Swedish side manager Henrik Rydström, speaking after the match, praised his team’s execution and resilience in what he described as one of the most interesting press conferences he has ever experienced.
Despite the dominant result, Rydström was quick to stress that the match had been anything but easy. Malmö came in fully aware of RFS’s strengths — particularly their control over second balls and threat from set pieces. The coach emphasized that the victory was not about exploiting obvious weaknesses, but rather about successfully applying Malmö’s own strengths to the game.
“We knew what they’re good at,” Rydström explained. “Our goal was to take control of those areas and use our attacking speed, especially up front.” While there were stretches, especially in the first half, when RFS applied pressure and kept Malmö pinned back, the Swedish side remained composed and eventually dictated the rhythm.
A key tactical aspect of the match was Malmö’s repeated use of the left flank, particularly in the opening 45 minutes. Rydström clarified that this was less about targeting a defensive flaw in RFS and more about allowing his players to play in areas where they feel most comfortable. “A lot of our players like playing close together on the left — it’s our style, not necessarily a reaction to the opponent.”
One of the most effective elements of Malmö’s performance was their containment of RFS playmaker Jānis Ikaunieks, a player known for his creativity and goal threat. Malmö had prepared carefully for his movements and role in the team’s attack. Rydström credited his squad’s balance of individual responsibility and collective organization, which allowed them to stifle key threats without becoming too reactive.
In midfield, Malmö’s work rate was relentless. Rydström described his midfielders as “engines,” praising their stamina, positional discipline, and ability to control both space and possession. This dominance in the center of the pitch prevented RFS from launching effective counterattacks, something Malmö had identified as a major threat — especially after reviewing footage of the Latvian side’s shock win over Ajax in the previous season.
While RFS stuck to their structure and remained loyal to their tactical identity, Malmö’s preparation and execution gave them the upper hand. “You can’t take away 100% of what an opponent is good at,” Rydström admitted, “but we managed to minimize their biggest threats and impose our game.”
When asked whether he had consulted fellow Swede Andreas Alm — currently coaching FK Liepāja in the Latvian league — Rydström replied with a smirk: “He doesn’t like me and I don’t speak with him,” he said half-jokingly. “We’ve had some tough duels over the years. Let’s just say he’s not the first one I’d call. But I do wish him success here.”
Throughout the press conference, Rydström appeared both engaged and refreshed by the depth of the questions, repeatedly praising the Latvian media for their tactical curiosity. “This is one of the most interesting press conferences I’ve ever had,” he said. “In Sweden, they never ask about tactics — it’s always about something else. So this has been fun.”
The second leg game will be played next Wednesday in Sweden,
