Although Mjallby finished fifth last season, they concluded the campaign with an abundance of points, and Anders Torstensson has successfully carried that momentum into the 2025 season.

However, he likely did not anticipate such an exceptional start, as his team has amassed 27 points from their first 12 games, placing them at the top of the standings.

This achievement is even more remarkable considering that Mjallby drew their initial two matches, followed by eight wins in the subsequent 10 encounters.

Most recently, though, Mjallby settled for a 1-1 draw away against 10th-placed IFK Norrkoping, underscoring that they must remain cautious and focused.

Moreover, they have managed only three clean sheets in their first 12 fixtures, a concern that stands out given they have scored just four goals in their last three games.

As for Varnamo, they face a tough battle to secure their Allsvenskan status beyond a fourth season following a poor start to 2025.

After losing their first seven matches in Sweden's top division, Arne Sandsto's side is playing catch-up, with three draws in their last four games providing a modest revival.

These draws came against teams in seventh, fifth, and 15th places, including notable results against Malmo and most recently versus Osters IF.

Nonetheless, conceding a goal in the 90th minute against a direct relegation rival could undermine their budding confidence, making this match crucial as they trail 14th place by six points.

Mjallby is likely to make at least one change due to an injury to Timo Stavitski from their previous game.

Uba Charles came on as a 15th-minute substitute and is expected to start at wing-back for this encounter.

The highly sought-after Abdoulie Manneh has recorded six goals and two assists in 12 games this season and is set to feature in one of the two number-10 positions.

Given that Varnamo only conceded a late equalizer against Osters, Sandsto may opt to keep the same starting lineup.

If changes occur, players like Ishaq Abdulrazak and Mohammed Alsalkhadi are ready to step in for the forward roles.

Mjallby AIF possible starting lineup:

Tornqvist; Johansson, Noren, Petterson; Stroud, Gustavsson, Rojkjaer, Charles; Malachowski, Thorell, Manneh; Bergstrom

Varnamo possible starting lineup:

Keto; Larsson, Andersson, Grozdanic, Bjornstrom; Le Roux; Johansson, Wenderson, Zeljkovic; Junior Adjei, Kalu