Kalmar vs Malmo

Kalmar's second goal early in the third period proved decisive. Malmö had weathered the storm through two periods and were growing into the game, but the quick strike forced them to chase the match on the front foot — a task at which they ultimately came up short. The Redhawks managed only sporadic chances in the final frame and could not replicate the sustained pressure needed to level.

Jacob Josefson (Malmö Redhawks) — The 35-year-old forward scored Malmö's only goal and was a steadying presence on the puck. His finish at 49:01 gave his side a lifeline.

David Blomgren & Gustav Lindström (Malmö Redhawks) — The defensive pair combined on Josefson's goal and were among Malmö's most reliable performers in transition.

Kalmar's defensive unit — The home side's back line limited Malmö to few clear-cut chances after the early third-period wobble, sealing the win.

Player of the match was not officially designated at the time of writing.

The Betmana match page shows a 2–1 scoreline that accurately reflects a tight contest where Kalmar's efficiency in front of goal made the difference. Malmö, playing their second pre-season game after a 2–1 loss to Växjö on 14 August, controlled stretches of possession but lacked the final-third sharpness to turn it into goals. Kalmar, meanwhile, showed the resilience that made them runners-up in the HockeyAllsvenskan regular season last term (113 points from 52 games).

For Kalmar, the result builds confidence after a mixed pre-season: they opened with a 4–2 win over Vimmerby (14 August), then lost 5–2 to Karlskrona (18 August). The win over SHL opposition signals they can compete at a higher level as they prepare for the 2026–27 HockeyAllsvenskan campaign.

For Malmö, this was their second pre-season defeat (both 2–1 scorelines, first against Växjö). Head coach's staff, including forwards coach Jens Nielsen, have emphasised building good habits over results at this stage. New signings Peter DiLiberatore (returning to face his former club), Oliwer Kaski, Jonathan Myrenberg, Klas Dahlbeck and Hugo Pettersson all featured.

Malmö's next pre-season fixture is scheduled for later this month, while Kalmar continue their preparation ahead of the HockeyAllsvenskan season.

A useful workout for both sides. Kalmar showed they can grind out results against SHL opposition, while Malmö have work to do in the offensive zone before the regular season begins. The 2–1 scoreline undersold the competitive balance but accurately reflected which team was sharper in the critical moments.