Gameweek 5 Preview

A look at gameweek 5 in Eliteserien this coming Wednesday and Thursday.

Wednesday 1st July

Aalesund v Mjøndalen (Score Draw)

Differing styles in this one. Aalesund like to attack, Mjøndalen keep it tight. Aalesund should have won at the weekend, and it was Sigurd Haugen that was a huge goal threat. Mjøndalen lost a couple goals, but that is the first time this season.

I fear Mjøndalen could hit Aalesund on the break in this one, Ibrahim is in goalscoring form, so look out for him again.

Aalesund have scored in every game so far, Mjøndalen have scored once in 3 games, goalless in the other, but I think this game could suit them.

With Castro dropping deep for Aalesund, look out for an Aasmundsen yellow card as well for Mjøndalen.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, Aasmundsen to be carded, Ibrahim anytime.

Most likely scorers in my opinion: Haugen for Aalesund and Ibrahim for Mjøndalen

Haugesund v Start (Home Win)

Off the back of a first win, Haugesund will fancy their chances against Start who have yet to win and just lost 5-0. Likely changes from that game include the goalkeeper, but Start rotated last midweek a little too.

Niklas Sandberg has started the season well, he is a goal candidate for Haugesund, but Start conceed goals from set pieces quite often, so an outside bet could be Benjamin Tiedemann Hansen for a goal.

Start were awful on Saturday, they can't be that bad again. Bringaker is their biggest threat in a game that I fancy some goals and corners.

Bet Builder: Over 2.5 goals, Over 9.5 corners, Sandberg anytime to score. 

Most likely scorers: Sandberg for Haugesund and Bringaker for Start.

Odd v Bodø/Glimt (Away Win)

The big news before this one is that Torgeir Børven won't be playing, he is joining Rosenborg today it has been agreed, with his contract up next month.

Glimt and Odd are both in scoring form, 25 goals between them in their 4 games so far. So, goals is on the cards again. JP Hauge on paddypower has 3/1 odds to score anytime, that's far too high the form he is in. 

It should be a pretty attacking game, both teams hit a lot of crosses so should see corners I would hope. Glimt got to be favourites with Børven not playing. Although Odd have signed Mushaga Bakenga to replace him, he isn't as good or prolific.

Bet Builder: Over 2.5 goals, over 10.5 corners, Birk Risa to be booked, goal in both halves

Most likely to score: Tobias Lauritsen for Odd, Kasper Junker for Glimt.

Stabæk v Strømsgodset (Home Win)

Well beaten by Molde, but Stabæk showed glimpses in attack, Vetlesen looks a really good player and goal threat this year. Godset aren't playing well, they were lucky against Aalesund, and 3 of their last 4 goals have been penalties from Maigaard.

I fancy Stabæk strongly here, and they are around evens to win. I think they will score more than 1 goal as well. Kassi might be injured, but I actually thought Kinoshita looked sharp when he came on the other night, he is still looking for a goal, it could be this week.

Bet Builder: Stabæk to win and to score 2 or more goals, Gunnarsson to be carded for Godset, Vetlesen to score.

Most likely to score: Vetlesen for Stabæk and Maigaard for Godset from a penalty.

Viking v Sandefjord (Home Win)

Viking yet to win, Sandefjord probably the best chance to do it. Sandefjord have only scored once from open play so far, a counter against an Odd side who were chasing an equaliser.

Viking were a little better against Vålerenga, still lost the game though. 

It was two set pieces than undone them, Sandefjord can play on that, so I do think both teams will score, although for Sandefjord it could be a defender up for a set piece, maybe Grorud. 

Viking attack with a lot of cross balls, and have more corners than any other team.

Bet Builder: Viking over 5.5 corners, Both teams to score, Palsson to be carded

Rosenborg v Vålerenga (Home Win)

Børven is available for Rosenborg against Vålerenga. He scored a hattrick against them last Wednesday. Can he do it again?

Rosenborg love corners, and played better against Brann, but they don't dominate midfield at all. Helland to Børven could be a nice link up. Expect that to create goals this season.

Vålerenga won against Viking, but they weren't particularly convincing. Dønnum is lively and RBK leave gaps in that left back area, he could be a threat here.

Can RBK create chances for Børven is the big question.

Bet Builder: Corners over 10.5, both teams to score, Børven anytime

Most likely scorers: Børven for RBK and Vilhjalmsson for Vålerenga. 

Thursday 2nd July

Kristiansund v Molde (Away Win)

Kristiansund are the latest to try and stop Molde, and they should have Pellegrino back fit. Leke James doesn't quite look 100% fit, but his link play was excellent on Sunday, and him and Omoijuanfo are due to play together.

Goals are to be expected here, two attacking teams who both haven't really kept it tight at the back. Kristiansund have played away 3 times, so they will be happy to be home.

This could be Molde's biggest test yet.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, over 2.5 goals, goal in both halves

Most likely scorers: Pellegrino for Kristiansund, Omoijuanfo for Molde.

Sarpsborg v Brann (Away Win)

Pointless Sarpsborg have scored only 3 goals so far, conceding 7. But they have been creating chances, just not been clinical enough. 

Brann are good on the road with their counter threat. Taylor, Koomson and Bamba all have the pace to get in behind. Bamba was unhappy to be subbed after an hour on Sunday, he will want to score on Thursday, and I think he will with his pace in behind.

Abdellaoue was rested at the weekend, he scored two last midweek, and Sarpsborg have been slowly improving, so this game should see some goals as well.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, Bamba anytime, Acosta to be carded.

Most Likely Scorers: Abdellaoue for Sarpsborg, Bamba for Brann

NAP : Bodø/Glimt to score 2 or more goals

Gameweek 4 Review

Another weekend of Eliteserien football has gone by, that is four games in 11 days for all the teams, and there will be another round of games on Wednesday and Thursday.

This weekend it seemed like the intensity was down very slightly, perhaps not surprising given the schedule and the weather we have been having in Norway, still, there was 25 goals over the eight games.

It has been near 30 degrees Celsius for over two weeks now, and the players will need to continue showing their fitness as we have another two gameweeks this week.

Saturday 27th June

Game of the Week

Vålerenga v Viking

Viking visited Oslo on Saturday evening still looking for their first win of the season. Vålerenga meanwhile were off the back of a 4-1 beating from Odd on Wednesday night, and were looking to get their second win of the season, back home at Intility Arena.

There was a first start on the left wing for exciting youngster, Osame Sahroui, the 19 year old replacing Finne for this one in the Vålerenga side.

It was the home side who started by far the better of the two teams. Shala had a header straight at the keeper which was tipped over, and Dønnum went clean through from a quick counter, but shot straight at Austbø.

However it didn't take too long for the opening goal to arrive, and it was a second of the season for Mathias Vilhjalmsson. Herolind Shala swung in a free kick from the right hand side, and the big striker flicked a header into the net.

For me Austbø could probably do better, it was above him, and I never like to see a keeper being beaten like that, but it was a nice ball in from Shala and a deserved lead for Vålerenga. 

In terms of chances that was pretty much it for the first half, neither side really creating much as Viking continue to struggle for goals.

The second half they started brighter however, Østensen getting his head to a Joe Bell corner, but Klaesson pulling off a decent save.

Then came the real controversial moment of the match, as Vålerenga were awarded a ridiculous penalty. Sahroui had a cross from the left, and standing two metres away, defender Andresson had is arms behind his back. The ball hit his elbow which was against his body, and somehow the referee deemed it worthy of a penalty.

Thankfully for the game, and Viking, Vilhjalmsson  stepped up and his penalty was saved by Austbø, a pretty tame effort from the big striker down to the keepers right.

This seemed to spur on Viking, and Joe Bell, who looked very good in midfield for the away side, played a lovely pass in behind for Østensen, but his effort was well stopped by young goalkeeper Klaesson.

It wasn't long before the equaliser arrived, and it was a quality team goal for Viking. Furdal passed it into the feet of Østensen, who flicked it on to Berisha first time in the box, and he in turn passed it to Ibrahimaj for an easy tap in. A quality goal and a first of the season for the Kosovan international.

Deyver Vega - Costa Rican international

This fired Vålerenga back into life, young Sahroui causing trouble down the left, and his cross very nearly sliced into his own net by Andresson. 

But the winning goal was to arrive, and again it was a set piece. Shala playing it in, and as Adekugbe challenged for it, it broke kindle for substitute Deyver Vega to fire into the roof of the net from 8 yards.

They should have made the game safe, both Finne and Stokke missing good opportunities going through on the goalkeeper, but it didn't matter in the end.

A huge blow for Viking, but an important win for Vålerenga who find themselves in 6th spot after the first 4 games.

Viking on the other hand are winless, only kept off the bottom by pointless Sarpsborg. Viking's only point came in a 1-1 home draw with Mjøndalen. 

Dønnum becoming a real attacking threat for Vålerenga

Man of the Match - It was a good team display from Vålerenga, but Aron Dønnum maybe just sneaks it for me. He is direct and a real threat on that right hand side, cutting in on his left foot. 

He should have had a goal, but he is young and I think developing nicely into a good player for Vålerenga.

Around the Grounds

The other game to take place on Saturday evening saw Odd visit IK Start. In what looked like would be a nice close matchup, it was one way traffic the whole game as Odd ran out 5-0 winners on the road.

Start never got going, a really worrying display for the promoted side who are yet to win. They lost first half goals from Kassa and Hoff inside the first 15 minutes that really set the tone. Kassa finishing nicely with a chip over the keeper and then Hoff running unchallenged from half way, then firing into the corner from 20 yards.

The second half saw Eliteserien's top marksman, Torgeir Børven take his tally to six for the season. He lashed home a penalty and then headed home a corner, to make it 4-0, he looks a great bet for top scorer again this year.

There was time for a 5th, Tobias Lauritsen off the bench to head home after a poor error from Wichne in goal. Odd with back to back wins now and looking more like the team of 2019.

Sunday 28th June

The champions Molde welcomed Stabæk to Aker Stadion looking to continue their perfect start to the season, and produced probably their most convincing display so far, winning comfortably 4-1. Magnus Eikrem got the first, surprising goakeeper Sandberg with a cross come shot at the near post. He really has started the season in great form.

After the break Erling Knudtzon came on and scored with his first touch after Sandberg had twice saved well from Eikrem and Hussain.

Not long after it was 3-0, Leke James on his return from injury, turning home a lovely cross from John Kitolano. Hugo Vetlesen got one back for the visitors but another subsitute for Molde, Ohi Omoijuanfo came on to confirm the win from the penalty spot. Four wins from four for the champions.

Up in Bodø, the other team with a perfect record welcomed pointless Sarpsborg to Aspmyra Stadion, and they kept up pace with Molde by winning 2-1 in a much tighter game than most expected.

Jens Petter Hauge continued his good start to the season when he capitalised on a keeper mistake to score on the half hour mark. Halvorsen then equalised for Sarpsborg after the break, finishing well when the ball broke to him at the edge of the box from a corner.

But it wasn't to be for the bottom of the table club, Ulrik Saltnes scoring with his left foot into the far corner when found in the box by Bjørkan. A quality finish, and Glimt held on to keep up with Molde at the top.

Aalesund made the journey to Strømsgodset and really should have left with all three points, missing a hatful of chances throughout the encounter. Sigurd Haugen gave them the lead, but he also hit the post when it seemed easier to score, and should have done better went sent through 1 v 1. 

As it was, Godset got an equaliser, and it was a third penalty in two games for Mikkel Maigaard, who kept his composure from the spot after Uzochukwu had fouled Ikaunieks a couple minutes before the 90.

Ipalibo Jack was sent off just before the end for the home side, as he denied Haugen the chance to go through on goal again with a professional foul. 1-1 it ended, Aalesund still searching for that first win.

Haugesund picked up their first win of the season as they emerged victorious from a trip to Sandefjord. It was a single goal from Kristoffer Velde that gave all 3 points to Haugesund, running through on the left hand side and finishing into the near post with his left foot.

Sandefjord somehow didn't score when Kristoffer Hansen first hit the post then somehow didn't convert the rebound. Another disappointing result for Sandefjord who are already looking like they could be in for a long season.

Mjøndalen and Kristiansund met in Isachsen Stadion and it was the away side who left with all three points. The first half was goalless, mainly thanks to some incredible stops from both goalkeepers, but early in the second Liridon Kalludra got his first goal of the season, finishing well from an Amin Askar cross.

Then it was the returning Pellegrino who was in amongst the goals again, coming off the bench to grab his fourth of the season, slotting home through the keepers legs.

Ibrahim with 3 in 3 for Mjøndalen

Late on their was a consolation goal, his third game in a row now scoring, for Shuaibu Ibrahim, but it was too little too late for the home side.

The final game of the weekend was Rosenborg travelling to Bergen to meet Brann. RBK were winless, Brann yet to taste defeat, but this game went against the form book. 

Rosenborg, waiting on a new manager after Horneland's departure, fell behind very early in, Gilbert Koomson striking low in to the far corner after a Bamba pass.

Brann dominated the first half, but right on the half time whistle the game was level. It was Even Hovland who scored, neatly touching home a Helland free kick.

With the game running out of time, a moment of luck that could turn Rosenborg's season gave them the three points. Acosta lost the ball to Carlo Holse, and as Kristiansen tried to clear, the ball rebounded off Holse and over the stranded Ahamada in the Brann goal.

Rosenborg won't care how it came, they played far better in the second half and finally got their first win of the season.

With more games to come on Wednesday and Thursday this week, the fitness of the players is being tested to the limit. Thankfully it seems temperatures will drop this week so lets hope for more goals to keep up the exciting start to this 2020 season.

Results

Start 0 - 5 Odd

Vålerenga 2 - 1 Viking

Molde 4 - 1 Stabæk

Mjøndalen 1 - 2 Kristiansund

Bodø/Glimt 2 - 1 Sarpsborg

Sandefjord 0 - 1 Haugesund

Strømsgodset 1 - 1 Aalesund

Brann 1 - 2 Rosenborg

Gameweek 5 Fixtures

Wednesday July 1st

Aalesund v Mjøndalen

Haugesund v Start

Odd v Glimt (Game of the Week)

Stabæk v Strømsgodset

Viking v Sandefjord

Rosenborg v Vålerenga

Thursday July 2nd

Kristiansund v Molde

Sarpsborg v Brann

Top Scorers

Torgeir Børven - 6
Kasper Junker - 4
Amahl Pellegrino - 4

Seven players on 3

Gameweek 4 Preview

A look at Gameweek 4 in Eliteserien, coming this Saturday and Sunday

Saturday 27th June

Start v Odd 

Start are still looking for their first win of the season, but they have been unlucky. A last minute goal to lose against Molde on Wednesday was tough. Odd got their first win of the season, a 4-1 win over Vålerenga, Børven getting a hattrick.

This will be a tight game, and it should be open with Odd gaining confidence, and Start playing on the front foot every game so far. Børven of course a likely scorer for Odd, but Bringaker has scored in all three games so far for Start as well.

Start rested some players on Wednesday, so I am backing them to get their first win of the season.

Bet Builder: Goals over 2.5, Børven anytime, both teams to score.

Vålerenga v Viking

Vålerenga looked tight in pre season, but they have conceded six in the last two games. Viking are on one point after three games. A big game for both sides so early on, Shala, Dønnum and Finne look most likely to score for the home side. 

For Viking, it has been Østensen who has looked likely, although Berisha got his first goal of the season from the spot on Wednesday, so it could be time for him to kick on.

A tight game, a draw likely, and both teams maybe keeping it tight the first half in particular.

Bet Builder: Finne anytime goal, Dønnum to be booked, card index over 30 points

Sunday 28th June

Bodø/Glimt v Sarpsborg 

Top of the league glimt are flying, they attack with so many numbers, goals are almost guaranteed. Junker has four in two, Hauge and Zinckernagel have two each. Saltnes, Berg and Fet all have chipped him from midfield toom this is an attacking machine.

Don't be surprised if left back Bjørkan grabs a goal this weekend, he has been close a few times so far.

Sarpsborg are bottom, and have scored only twice, conceding five. I think they could get well beaten this weekend.

Bet Builder: Glimt to win and over 2.5 goals, Hauge anytime, Glimt over 5.5 corners

Mjøndalen v Kristiansund

The joint lowest scoring team at home to second top scoring team, but potentailly minus best goalscorer Pellegrino.

Mjøndalen play a defensive 5 at the back system, and rely on set pieces and counter attacking. Ibrahim has scored in two consecutive games now, he looks the biggest threat. 

Kristiansund without Pellegrino don't have a consistent scorer, although 35 year old Askar has scored in the previous two games. They put 7 passed Aalesund last weekend, but I think it will be tight this, and potential for another draw for Mjøndalen.

Bet Builder: Under 2.5 goals, Psyche to be carded(Kristiansund), Kristiansund to win the corner match up.

Molde v Stabæk

The champions are three from three, but still not 100% hit their stride. Rumour is James is back in full training, so he should be back, and I fancy him to score. Molde have scored 3 goals in this fixture the last five seasons, winning all but one of them. So expect goals, and likely a lot of corners.

Stabæk beat Sandefjord easily on Wednesday for their first win, but I think they will struggle here. 

Bohinen is in good form, and Kassi has looked good too, but Kinoshita hasn't looked as good as he did in pre season. Molde will have too much

Bet Builder: Molde to win, over 2.5 goals, over 10.5 corners, Leke James anytime

Sandefjord v Haugesund 

Sandefjord have four points, but I personally think they have been lucky to get that many. They struggle for goals from open play, 3 of their 4 so far have been from set pieces resulting in headers.

Haugesund have been hammered off Glimt, but the other games were close. They are maybe due a result, and this could be the day to get it. They aren't struggling for goals, so I think this game will have a few. Niklas Sandberg has been excellent so far this season, he could cause trouble again to Sandefjord.

Bet Builder: Over 2.5 goals, Sandberg to score, both teams to score

Strømsgodset v Aalesund

Another game we can expect goals. Have to say I haven't been at all impressed with Strømsgodset, but Aalesund are wide open at the back. 

Castro and Nordli are stand outs for Aalesund, Maigaard hits penalties for Godset, so he might get another chance. Salvesen is strong and good in the air, I think he will score this weekend against this defense. But I think they will also concede, likely scored or setup by Castro or Nordli. 

Bet Builder: over 2.5 goals, Salvesen to score anytime, Niklas Gunnarsson to be carded for Strømsgodset

Brann v Rosenborg

Brann are going well, Bamba looking like a real goal threat with creative players around him. Rosenborg with 1 point, and managerless. Expect goals again! RBK were better when they pressed high, they will likely come out and do it from the start this weekend. Brann will pick them off on the break, the pace of Koomson could be crucial.

Bet Builder: Bamba to score anytime, over 2.5 goals, over 10.5 corners, Trondsen to be carded for RBK

NAP of the week: Molde to win and over 2.5 goals in the game

Eliteserien Gameweek 3 Review

Another fantastic gameweek has been and gone in Eliteserien as the games come thick and fast to make up for the delay to the start of the season.

Again there were goals all over the place, a total of 32 goals over the 8 games, only Sandefjord failing to score this time around.

With only one day off before round four starts on Saturday, here is a quick look at round 3.

Thursday 25th June

Game of the Week

Rosenborg v Bodø/Glimt

Rosenborg came into this huge game at Lerkendal after another goalless display, this time in defeat at Molde. They were up against a Glimt side that had probably looked the most impressive of anyone so far this year, and who would be confident after hammering Haugesund 6-1 at the weekend.

Indeed there were already rumours Horneland would be in trouble for his job with a defeat here, and Glimt started really well, Bjørkan with a great chance as he came in at the back post, but his shot was very well saved by the leg of Andre Hansen.

Glimt looked so dangerous early on, and in the 20th minute they had the lead from the penalty spot. Ulrik Saltnes was brought down with a clumsy challenge from Reginiussen. Philip Zinckernagel stepped up and slotted it into the bottom left corner.

It was a deserved lead, and Glimt looked likely to score almost every time they went forward, Rosenborg struggling to keep the ball when they had it.

There were no more goals in the first half, although Rosenborg would be happy to only be one behind.

The second half Rosenborg showed a little more to start the half, but after only six minutes they were dealt a blow when Birger Meling went flying into a tackle and picked up a red card. It could well be his last act in an RBK shirt, with a transfer to Nimes lined up for the 1st of July.

Despite being reduced to 10, it actually gave some life to the Trondheim club, and they started to play with more intensity.

After Junker had been unable to turn in an excellent Zinckernagel cross, the game was turned on its head.

Substitute Trondsen was at the heart of it, his cross turned into his own net by Bjørkan, with Islamovic lurking behind putting him under pressure. Rosenborg's first goal of the season.

Then with 10 minutes to go, Rosenborg took an unlikely lead. A free kick from Hedenstad went deep round the back and Anders Trondsen smashed home on the volley.

An incredible turnaround, but the game wasn't over yet as Glimt with a man advantage upped the tempo to try and get back in it.

Horneland sacked after three games of the season

Rosenborg sat deep, but they were undone in the 87th minute, when a perfect pass from JP Hauge sent Junker through to calmly place home with his left foot. Confidence high from his hattrick on Sunday, he was ice cold when faced with the keeper.

With the game heading towards injury time, Glimt were piling on the pressure, and RBK caved in, as substitute Ola Solbakken turned home another JP Hauge assist, this time from a cross, to turn this incredible game round again, and give Glimt their third win out of three, and Rosenborg still searching for 3 points.

Another incredible game in Eliteserien, Glimt look like they could challenge Molde all the way this season, the attacking purpose they play with is really impressive.

Rosenborg on the other hand are in real turmoil, despite showing fight here with 10 men, it was the end of the road for Eirik Horneland, and RBK will start the search for a new manager to help them start their climb of the table.

Man of the Match - JP Hauge

JP Hauge, two assists and a threat throughout

Some really good performances from Patrick Berg, Ulrik Saltnes and Philip Zinckernagel, but for me the standout was Jens Petter Hauge. The left winger assisted the second and third goals, but he was also a threat throughout. A real talent, Glimt are hoping he hangs around for the whole of the 2020 season.

Rosenborg 2 - 3 Bodø/Glimt

Around the Grounds

The other game on Thursday evening saw another 5 goals, as Strømsgodset got the better of Sarpsborg 08. It was a game with four penalties, the first one missed by Halvorsen for Sarpsborg, before Maigaard scored two for Strømsgodset to give them a nice half time lead.

After the break it looked like Saprsborg were back in it when Abdellaoue headed in from close range, but they conceded immediately, Johan Hove firing home the rebound after Salvesen had his attempt saved.

Sarpsborg had time to score another, from the spot Abdellaoue keeping his composure, but it was too little too late as Strømsgodset win again to move onto 7 points, Sarpsborg bottom of the table with no points so far.

Wednesday 24th June

Molde continued their perfect start to the season, although they left it very late in beating Start 3-2, with a last second winner from Stian Gregersen.

Mikael Ugland had given Start an early lead, but they were pegged back through both of Molde's full backs. First Pedersen, then Haugen getting on the end of attacking moves as they came flying in at the back posts, both assisted neatly by Eikrem.

Mathias Bringaker continued his form with a goal in every game so far, heading home with 15 minutes to go. It looked liked a point was on the cards, until Gregersen stole in and poked the ball away from Wichne in goal and tucked the ball into an unguarded net.

In Aalesund there was a first point of the season for the home side, as they drew 2-2 with Brann. Daouda Bamba had looked like giving Brann all three points when his two goals had turned the game around after Niklas Castro had given Aalesund a half time lead.

However, a second of the season for Holmbert Fridjonsson gave Aalesund a share of the points, and something to build on.

In Haugesund the home team were again looking for their first points of the season, and came away with just one. It looked like they might be in for another tough day when Amin Askar nicely turned home an Aliou Coly cross to give Kristiansund the lead.

But Haugesund turned it round, a first goal for Ammitzbøll, heading home just after the break. Then star man Niklas Sandberg finished a nice move with a beautiful left footed curling finish into the far corner.

Kristiansund with hattrick hero from the weekend, Pellegrino, out through injury did find an equaliser, and it was a big mistake from Sandvik in goals, as he dropped a pretty routine cross and left an easy tap in for Christopher Psyche. The points shared in Haugesund.

Stabæk got their first win of the season with a comfortable 2-0 win over Sandefjord at Nadderud Stadion. The home side were by far the most likely team throughout, and it was Andreas Hanche-Olsen who gave them the lead, heading home from a corner.

Emil Palsson was shown red for Sandefjord just before the hour mark, his second yellow card for a foul on Vetlesen. It was Vetlesen himself who made the game safe, finishing very well from the edge of the box to give Stabæk all three points.

In Stavanger, Viking are still chasing their first win as Mjøndalen came and left with a point. Shuaibu Ibrahim scored for the second game running, this time a real poachers effort, turning home from a couple of yards after a corner was headed back in.

The lead didn't last until half time, a penalty for Viking was tucked home by Veton Berisha for his first goal since his return to Viking in the winter.

Neither side could find a winner after the break, Soosha Makani in the Møndalen goal in good form to deny Viking picking up their first win.

The final game on Wednesday saw Odd welcome Vålerenga to Skagerak Arena, and they were sent home with something to think about.

Vålerenga had an early lead, Vilhjalmsson scoring from the spot after Kachi had brought down Herolind Shala at the edge of the box.

The lead lasted on 6 minutes though, Vebjørn Hoff's shot lacked any power, but Magnus Lekven somehow let it go under his foot on the line, really poor defending.

Børven on 4 goals already this season

Then it turned in to the Torgeir Børven show. A typical display from last seasons top scorer, he rarely takes part in build up play, but he bagged himself a hattrick.

The first was a really poor error from the young goalkeeper Klaesson, somehow letting Børvens flicked effort through his hands and into the net.

Then Lekven fouled Lauritsen in the area, Lekven not enjoying his evening, he was really poor the whole game. Børven tucked away the penalty with ease, and completed his hattrick late on, turning home from 2 yards a shot come cross from Hoff. 

Odd picking up their first win of the season and dishing out a first defeat to Vålerenga. Bitter sweet for Odd, as the thought of not having Børven from August will be worrying as he moves on to Rosenborg.

We have one day free, before Eliteserien round four kicks off on Saturday, with a full fixture list again over the weekend.

Results

Aalesund 2 - 2 Brann

Haugesund 2 - 2 Kristiansund

Stabæk 2 - 0 Sandefjord

Start 2 - 3 Molde

Viking 1 - 1 Mjøndalen

Odd 4 - 1 Vålerenga

Sarpsborg 2 - 3 Strømsgodset

Rosenborg 2 - 3 Bodø/Glimt

Gameweek 4 Fixtures

Saturday 27th June

Start v Odd

Vålerenga v Viking (Game of the Week)

Sunday 28th June

Bodø/Glimt v Sarpsborg

Mjøndalen v Kristiansund

Molde v Stabæk

Sandefjord v Haugesund

Strømsgodset v Aalesund

Brann v Rosenborg

Gameweek 3 Preview

A quick look at gameweek 3 in Eliteserien, coming to you this Wednesday and Thursday evening.

Wednesday 24th June

Aalesund v Brann

Off the back of a 7-2 hammering by Kristiansund, Aalesund play Brann, who will be confident after a 3-0 in over Viking.
Bamba, Taylor and Koomson all look good for Brann, and after Bamba getting his goal on Sunday night, I'm backing him again on Wednesday.
Aalesund are decent going forward, but awful at the back. Nordli is a real goal threat for them.
Prediction: Brann win
Bet Builder: Brann win, over 2.5 goals, Bamba Anytime

Haugesund v Kristiansund

Kristiansund coming off a 7-2 win, Haugesund off a 6-1 defeat. Probably expect Haugesund to tighten up a little, but still goals in this one.

Pellegrino got a hattrick for Kristiansund at the weekend, he will be full of confidence, and last season showed he can score in consecutive games quite often.

For Haugesund, two defeats now, so they will be out for some points. Ammitzbøll will likely start up top with Kallman being taken off at half time on Sunday. 

I fancy Kristiansund though to continue there good start to the season.

Prediction: Kristiansund win

Bet Builder: Over 2.5 goals, over 10.5 corners, Pellegrino anytime

Stabæk v Sandefjord

Two draws so far for Stabæk, they will be out for a win against promoted Sandefjord. Luc Kassi was lively on Sunday, maybe should have seen red, but he scored and assisted. Look for him to be in the goals.Sandefjord have 4 points, but perhaps been a little lucky. It was set pieces that saved them on Sunday, but Stabæk should be stronger defensively than Start.Prediction: Stabæk winBet Builder: Kassi anytime, Palsson to be booked(Sandefjord), Stabæk to win

Start v Molde

Start have looked good in attack, but shaky at the back so far, and Molde have looked pretty ominous. Ohi Omoijuanfo was back on Saturday, getting a goal, and now Leke James will be back for Wednesday night. They will cause huge trouble for Start.

Bringaker, Markovic and Kabran are all good attacking threats for Start, another game I see goals coming in.

Prediction: Molde Win

Bet Builder: Leke James or Ohi Omoijuanfo to score anytime, over 2.5 goals, over 10.5 corners

Viking v Mjøndalen

Viking were well beaten Sunday night by Brann, Mjøndalen are yet to concede a goal.

This could be a low scoring affair, the back 5 of Mjøndalen looks good.

I worry about the pace of Hove at the back for Viking against Ibrahim, and that is where I'm looking for the biggest threat to come.

Prediction: Draw

Bet Builder: Ibrahim anytime, Aasmundsen to be booked(Mjøndalen), Hove to be booked (Viking)

Odd v Vålerenga

Odd have looked miles off it so far this year, they are really struggling going forward. Vålerenga have looked good at the back, although they conceded twice against Stabæk, I expect them to tighten up.
Finne and Dønnum will be chief creaters this week with Shala suspended. Odd need to hope Børven has his head in the game, before he moves to RBK next month.
Prediction: Draw
Bet Builder: Under 2.5 goals, Dønnum anytime, Risa to be booked(Odd)

Thursday 25th June

Sarpsborg v Strømsgodset

Sarpsborg have lost both games 1-0, so another low scoring game expected. Strømsgodset won at the weekend over Odd, only 1-0 though. Will likely be a low scoring affair, don't see where Sarpsborg will get their goals from.

Salvesen the obvious threat for Strømsgodset, in a tight game he is a likely scorer from a corner or free kick.

Prediction: Draw

Bet Builder: Under 2.5 goals, Salvesen anytime, Strømsgodset over 4.5 corners

Rosenborg v Bodø/Glimt

Rosenborg yet to score and looking toothless, against a Glimt side absolutely flying. Horneland already in trouble for his job, there is no way they can sit back and defend all game here at home. 
Expect goals, and Glimt could get the majority of them with the front 3, plus the midfield 3 all looking dangerous.
Junker got a hattrick on Sunday, Hauge got 1, could have had more. Zinckernagel didn't join in, but he looks so sharp this early on in the season.
Prediction: Glimt to win
Bet Builder: Over 2.5 goals, Hauge anytime, over 10.5 corners

Eliteserien Gameweek 2 Review

Game of the Week - Molde v Rosenborg

Saturday night saw the 2018 champions travel to the 2019 champions as Molde entertained Rosenborg.

Molde had looked far more convincing in the midweek games, with Rosenborg looking a little bit lost for ideas in attack against Kristiansund on Tuesday night. 

The warmest weekend of the year in Norway with temperatures hovering around 30 degrees, it meant the players fitness would be put to the test early on in the season.

It wasn't the most exciting first half in Aker Stadium, but there were some decent chances for both sides. 

Zachariassen, headed straight at the keeper when in a promising position, and Adegbenro had a very well hit left foot shot saved by keeper Linde. 

At the other end the best chance of the half fell to the returning Ohi Omoijuanfo. His first game of the season after a minor injury, he was up front with Leke James suspended, and he should have given Molde the lead when a corner came to him at the back post, but he headed just wide.

That was the best chance of an uneventful first half, but Ohi redeemed himself just one minute after the restart. 

First of the season for Ohi

A corner from Eikrem wasn't dealt with by Rosenborg, and when it came to Gregersen, he headed it across goal and it came through to Ohi at the back post to slide in for a simple goal. 

It was a really poor goal to lose for Rosenborg, and it could easily have been two when Ohi went clean through just five minutes later. He couldn't quite compose himself and fired over the bar from the edge of the box under slight pressure from behind.

Rosenborg didn't look dangerous at all, and indeed Brynhildsen could have added another when played in with a beautiful pass from Eikrem. His header was saved but the rebound hit Brynhildsen and rolled towards goal and hit the post.

The last 15 minutes was really the only time RBK had anything resembling an attacking threat. Tagseth had come off the bench, and the triangle of Meling, Adegbenro and Tagseth on the left hand side did combine a few times to create half chances, but nothing Molde couldn't deal with.

It was perhaps the only chink of light in an otherwise uninspiring performance from to Trondheim club, and rumours already of Eirik Horneland being in trouble for his job.

New signing Islamovic looks miles away from a top Eliteserien striker, and they have no attacking sequences at all. 

Molde were comfortable in the end and saw out the game to make it 2 from 2, and it looks like Rosenborg won't be the challengers as they failed to create anything for the second game in a row.

Man of the Match - Stian Gregersen

Molde had a potential defensive crisis after Forren left and Haraldseid got injured for the season, but Stian Gregerson has looked very solid so far this season, and made no mistakes all day here as Molde got their clean sheet.

Molde 1 - 0 Rosenborg


Around the Grounds

Saturday 20th June

The other game on Saturday saw Mjøndalen entertain Sarpsborg 08, and it was Shuaibu Ibrahim who got the only goal of the game, rounding off a nice team move by Mjøndalen, by chesting down a Brustad cross and finishing between the legs of the keeper. 

A second clean sheet in a row for Mjøndalen, as they look solid with there 5 at the back system.

Sunday 21st June

Pellegrino starting where he left off in 2019

Eliteserien went crazy on Sunday as 28 goals were scored across the 6 games. Kristiansund and Aalesund shared nine, as an Amahl Pellegrino hattrick helped the home side to a 7-2 win. Aalesund have now conceded 11 goals in their first two games back in Eliteserien.

There were also goals for Kalludra, Askar, Sørli and Bendik Bye for Kristiansund in their rout, despite an own goal from Pål Erik Ulvestad actually having given Aalesund an early lead.

Fridjonsson scored the other for Aalesund, as Simen Nordli was perhaps there only shining light with two assists.

The other high socring encounter was in Bodø, as Glimt showed they are a serious contender this year with a brutal dismantling of Haugesund inside 50 minutes.

The front 3 of Hauge, Zinckernagel and Junker look like a real threat, and with Saltnes and Berg looking in great form in midfield as well, it was 5-0 before Haugesund laid a glove on Glimt.

Kasper Junker bagged a hattrick, his first three goals for the club for the Dane after his summer move from Horsens, and there were also goals for JP Hauge and Patrick Berg. 

Niklas Sandberg scored a consolation penalty for Haugesund, but there was still time for Sammy Skytte to get his first Glimt goal late on to finish off an emphatic win.

In the battle between two promoted sides in Sandefjord, it ended in a 2-2 draw, as Sandefjord fought back twice from behind to draw with Start.

Mathias Bringaker scored for the second game running to give Start the lead, but a header from Lars Grorud brought it level.

Just before the break it was Jesper Daland who scored after a bit of a scramble in the box after a long throw, but again Sandefjord fought back to earn a point, as another set piece, this time headed in by Rufo Herraiz, undone Start.

In Oslo, Vålerenga and Stabæk was expected to be a tight game, but four goals shared left both teams with one point. 

It was Kosovan international Herolind Shala that opened the scoring after a nice move from Vålerenga, but Stabæk led at the break after two goals of their own. Luc Kassi should have been sent off for a shocking tackle on the half hour mark, but he scored a nice header in the 38th minute, and then his shot was saved, but the rebound fell to Edvardsen to fire home, just two minutes later.

After the break, goalscorer Shala was shown red when he was booked for diving earning him a second yellow, although it did look like a free kick should have gone his way.

But the 10 men of Vålerenga fought back to earn a point, when they earned a pretty soft penalty, that Matthias Vilhjalmsson tucked away. A bad tempered game, not helped by the referee ending 2-2 in the rain in Oslo.

The lowest scoring game of the week saw Strømsgodset pick up 3 points with a 1-0 win over Odd. The only goal of the game came in the second minute, Johan Hove finishing really nicely on the half volley from a Tokstad cross.

The evening kick off saw Brann welcome Viking to Bergen, and after a goalless first half the game came to life early on in the second.

Daouda Bamba was sent through and he calmly lobbed the keeper who was stranded on the edge of his box. He could have had his second just moments later, but he couldn't repeat the feat when presented with an opportunity when Viking gave away the ball in a dangerous area.

It was 2-0 on the hour mark, Gilbert Koomson firing home after a really nice move down the Brann left hand side sent Kristiansen free to cross for Koomson.

Viking missed a golden chance to get back in the game, Tommy Høiland trying a panenka penalty, but goalkeeper Ahamada had not moved and Høiland was left embarrassed. 

The win was rounded off in the 94th minute, Fredrik Haugen sent through fellow substitute, Erlend Hustad to slot home and give Brann a convincing win, and a perfect start to the season.

Two rounds down, and more games on Wednesday and Thursday this week, Eliteserien is well and truly up and running in 2020. 

Results

Mjøndalen 1 - 0 Sarpsborg 08
Molde 1 - 0 Rosenborg
Glimt 6 - 1 Haugesund
Kristiansund 7 - 2 Aalesund
Strømsgodset  1 - 0 Odd
Sandefjord 2 - 2 Start
Vålerenga 2 - 2 Stabæk
Brann 3 - 0 Viking


Gameweek 3 Fixtures

Wednesday 24th June

Aalesund v Brann
Haugesund v Kristiansund
Stabæk v Sandefjord
Start v Molde
Viking v Mjøndalen
Odd v Vålerenga

Thursday 25th June

Sarpsborg v Strømsgodset
Rosenborg v Bodø/Glimt (Game of the Week)

Eliteserien Gameweek 1 - Review

Game of the Week - Aalesund v Molde

Last seasons champions met in Aalesund for gameweek one in 2020. OBOS Ligaen champions Aalesund hosting reigning Eliteserien champions Molde.

There were debuts on either side for exciting youngsters, Simen Bolkan Nordli for Aalsesund and also Ola Brynhildsen for Molde, two young players to look out for this season.

With 200 supporters allowed inside the stadium, it was a strange atmosphere, but they were treated to a really open game for almost all of the 90 minutes.

Eikrem scored the first goal in 2020

The first goal of Eliteserien 2020 was scored after 10 minutes in this game, as Magnus Wolf Eikrem gave Molde the lead. He picked up the ball 25 yards out and tried to play a one-two pass with Leke James. The return pass wasn't great, but Eikrem managed to get the ball back and skip passed a couple of challenge before firing low into the bottom left hand corner. It was 11 goals in 2019 for Eikrem, one of the stars of the league making his mark early on here.

Despite going behind, Aalesund showed a lot of character and quality to get themselves back in the contest. Niklas Castro was causing problems with his movement, and Haugen and Nordli were causing trouble too for what was a slightly makeshift Molde back line due to injuries.

Castro should have had his side level on the 25th minute, but he blazed his spot kick over the bar after his shot had been blocked by the hand of Leke James, earning the Molde striker a booking.

However it didn't take long for the equaliser, and it was an incredible strike by Nordli, seconds after the drinks break due to the heat.

Leke James played a poor pass inside his own half and Nordli strode onto the ball 45 yards out and smashed a curling shot over Linde in the Molde goal, who had been near the edge of his box. What a way to introduce yourself to the fans and the Eliteserien, already a goal of the season contender.

Aalesund continued to press, but they were dealt a huge blow right before the break. A corner from Eikrem ended up at Bjørnbak's feet, his shot was blocked, but Etzaz Hussain was on hand to fire home from 5 yards. There was a question of a foul from James in the build up, but Molde didn't care and went in ahead despite a poor first half display.

Molde came out the second half looking stronger, and indeed made it 1-3 when Leke James tapped home after Haugen had fired a shot come cross in from the left hand side. The initial cross had been poorly dealt with by Andreas Lie in the Aalesund goal, he will be disappointed with his contribution here.

James wasn't done there, but this time for the wrong reason. His eventful day coming to an end when he stretched for the ball and may, or may not, have caught Nordli. The referee saw it as a foul and promptly sent James off with his second yellow card.

This gave Aalesund 20 minutes to get back into the game, but they rarely threatened, and in the end it was Molde who made the points safe, Eirik Hestad firing home from 20 yards with his left foot. A real quality finish from the substitute just five minutes after joining the action.

Molde showed their quality in the end, and Aalesund will have to tighten up defensively. But they have quality up top, and there will be easier tasks to come in the future.

Aalesund 1 - 4 Molde
Man of the Match - Etzaz Hussain


Around the Grounds

Tuesday 16th June

Elsewhere on Tuesday evening, there were goalless draws between Rosenborg and Kristiansund in Trondheim, and also between Stabæk and Mjøndalen.

Last years second placed team, Bodø/Glimt got their campaign under way with a come from behind 4-2 win in Stavanger, against Viking. 

Fredrik Torsteinbo scored a header from a corner, before Ulrik Saltnes finished nicely after a Junker pass to equalise for Glimt.

Viking went back ahead when a beautifullly flicked finish from Even Østensen looped over Khaikin in the Glimt goal to give Viking the half time lead.

The second half was all about the team from Bodø. Firstly JP Hauge got a goal after a great display of pace and a cross to match from Philip Zinckernagel left him with a relatively easy finish.

Then it was Sondre Brunstad Fet on his Glimt debut, tapping in after great work from left full back Bjørkan, who slalomed his way in to the box and chipped over the keeper onto the crossbar.

The scoring was rounded off in the 80th minute as Philip Zinckernagel, who had been a threat throughout, was on the end of a loose ball in the box and calmly sidestepped a defender before firing home for a great comeback win, and evidence that Glimt will be tough to beat again this year.

Over at the Skagerak Stadion the surprise of the night was taking place, as newly promoted Sandefjord managed to win on the road against Odd. 

It was a late show in what had been quite a tight game, but substitute Ze Eduardo came onto the pitch in the 83rd minute, and within 10 seconds had scored the opening goal from a corner. A bullet header to mark his first ever touch in Norwegian football.

It was 2-0 in the 90th minute, as another debutant, 20 year old Sivert Gussiås finishing off a quick counter after Odd had been denied a potential penalty at the other end.

There was time for Torgeir Børven to score a late consolation penalty for Odd, but this was a poor start to the season. Børven, last years top scorer in the league, also confirmed after the game that he will be joining Rosenborg when his contract is up at the end of July leaving Odd with a huge hole to fill.

Dønnum certainly one to watch this season

The final game on Tuesday saw Vålerenga defeat Sarpsborg 08 at Sarpsborg Stadion. It was a tight and fairly even game, but it was 22 year old Aron Dønnum, mentioned as one to watch in my preview, that stabbed home the only goal of the game as the ball fell to him about 14 yards out.

Wednesday 17th June

The final two games took place on Wednesday, with first up Start welcoming Strømsgodset. It was Start who dominated the game, but went in behind when Lars Jørgen Salvesen rose high to head home right at the end of the first half.

Start turned things around though with Bringaker flicking home, before man of the match Eman Markovic marked his Eliteserien debut with a neat finish from 14 yards.

The game finished 2-2 however, as midfielder Hermann Stengel managed to roll in a mishit shot into the far corner, after Salvesen himself had fluffed a shot into Stengel's path.

The final game of the week saw Brann visit Haugesund, where another debutant, Robert Taylor, scored the first goal to give Brann the lead at the start of the second half. 

Niklas Sandberg got Haugesund level from the spot on the hour mark, but it was not to be for Haugesund, and a 96th minute winner from Brann captain, Daniel Pedersen, took all 3 points home to Bergen. It was a real quality header from Pedersen after a nicely whipped in corner from Fredrik Haugen.

With Brann's late winner, it meant we saw five away winners in gameweek one, and nobody winning at home. Playing in front of no support might be affecting the home side more than the away on this viewing.

Results

Aalesund 1 - 4 Molde
Rosenborg 0 - 0 Kristiansund
Odd 1 - 2 Sandefjord
Viking 2 - 4 Glimt
Sarpsborg 0 - 1 Vålerenga
Stabæk 0 - 0 Mjøndalen
Start 2 - 2 Strømsgodset
Haugesund 1 - 2 Brann

Fixtures Gameweek 2

Saturday 20th June

Mjøndalen v Sarpsborg

Molde v Rosenborg  (Game of the Week)

Sunday 21st June

Bodø/Glimt v Haugesund

Strømsgodset v Odd

Kristiansund v Aalesund

Sandefjord v Start

Vålerenga v Stabæk

Brann v Viking

Stabæk and Vålerenga

The 2019 season was a much more comfortable season for Stabæk after surviving relegation playoffs in 2018. They won 10, drew 10, lost 10 and finished 8th place in the league. It did look in the summer that they would be in trouble, but the arrival of experienced Swede, Jan Jonsson, turned things around for them.

The 60 year old has plenty experience in Norway with Stabæk, Rosenborg and Aalesund, and arrived back last year after a few years in Japan with two different clubs.

Based in Bærum near Oslo, Stabæk play at the 4'938 capacity Nadderud Stadion. Despite the small stadium, they do have good recent history in the top flight in Norway, winning the title in 2008, a second place in 2007, and three third places since the turn of the century.

There has been a couple of important players leave since last season though, Ronald Hernandez  one who left, joining Aberdeen. The Venezuelan defender was impressive in his two and a half years with the club.

More importantly though, rising star and one of the best young players in Norway, Ola Brynhildsen, has left for Molde. The 21 year old scored 6 goals last year, but he is much more than goals, his close control and game intelligence is a real standout for someone his age, and Stabæk will miss him a lot.

They have made a conscious effort to bring in young players this winter, with Jesper Isaksen joining from Kristiansund, and two players coming in from England.

One is Norwegian Kornelius Normann Hansen from Southampton, and the other is an English born Chinese Taipei international, Will Donkin.

Donkin, 19, was part of the Chelsea and Crystal Palace systems, but has moved to Norway now to pursue more first team football, and the attacking midfielder could well have a part to play this season.

They way they finished 2019 should give them belief they can finish in the top half again, but goals could well be the issue, although Kosuke Kinoshita has looked sharp in pre season, so he could be the one to start the campaign as the main striker.

Key Players

Emil Bohinen, son of former international Lars, now Aalesund manager, is one of the best talents in Norway. Just turned 21, the central midfielder looks like a really classy player. Tall and hard working, he has a great left foot and was another important player for Stabæk last year.

He has great vision for a pass from midfield, and he also breaks up play really well. A classic box to box midfielder, he is capable of scoring goals, and also has penalty duties and takes set pieces.

A youth international at all ages, he looks certain to go on to full international honours, and I think this year he could be one of the best midfielders in the league. Four goals and five assists last year, but this year you can expect an even greater return, and also look for him to run games from midfield.

The only worry is if they can hang on to him over the summer, with interest from England and France likely to appear as the transfer window opens, and even as I write, it looks like offers are on the table.

Another big young player last year, and already the captain at Stabæk aged 23, is Andreas Hanche-Olsen. The central defender has been a regular for over three years now and will again be the central figure in a strong defense.

Aggressive in the air and on the ground, he is also comfortable on the ball, and has good relationship with left back Jeppe Moe, his good friend off the pitch as well.

Stabæk can also rely on having the 2019's best goalkeeper in the league between the sticks as well. Marcus Sandberg was in excellent form last year, at 29 years old it was his first full season as a number one goalkeeper at the top level.

He was very consistent throughout the year, making very few mistakes and showed his shot stopping abilities on several occasions for Stabæk.

With momentum from autumn, Stabæk should be looking to start this season better than last, and with there not being much between a lot of teams in the middle of the league, they could easily finish anywhere between 5th and 12th.

Prediction 11th

Vålerenga are from Oslo, and historically one the biggest teams in Norway. Five times winner of the top flight in Norway, there most recent was in 2005. They have also won the Norwegian Cup four times, 2008 being the most recent.

Recently however they haven't been able to break in to the top 5, only one time since 2006 when they finished 2nd in 2010. Last year Ronny Deila was in charge and they started the season well, but fell away drastically after the summer break, eventually ending up in 10th, only four points from the drop.

Deila left in the winter to go to New York, and in his place has come Dag-Eilev Fagermo. He left Odd after an incredibly successful 13 year spell, in which his team was very defensively solid, and relied on individual quality for goalscoring.

Another team without a double figure goal scorer, 33 year old Mathias Vilhjalmsson only managed 5 as the main striker, he hasn't had a double figure season since 2013 with Start. The beautifully named, Peter Godly Michael is back from a short loan at Skeid last year, and he could well provide competition this year.

The squad is almost the same as last year, and they do have some good quality in attacking areas. So with Fagermo organising the defensive shape of the team, they should have a good base to work from.

Home games are played in the Intility Arena, which was completed in 2017 and has a capacity of 16'555, although last season averaged less than half full which didn't help the home team as they won only six games at home all season.

Key Players

Last year one of the real standouts for VIF was Aron Dønnum. The 22 year old attacking midfielder broke in to the first team last year, becoming the main creative player for the team.

Usually playing on the right hand side, he is very left footed and has very quick feet. He can run in behind with his pace, but cutting inside is when he is at his most dangerous.

He can pick out a pass as well as scoring with his powerful shot, and he plays with freedom to come inside and get on the ball in areas the defenders find difficult to pick up. This year he could become a real star in Eliteserien, and will most likely improve on the six league goals he managed last year.

Another quality midfielder is Kosovan international, Herolind Shala. The former Norwegian youth, also played youth football for Albania, and made six appearances for Albania, before switching allegiance to Kosovo.

Another left footer, he usually starts a little deeper than Dønnum, but loves getting forward and is a real goal threat. He is another with quick feet and a good shot, and his intelligence in the middle of the park stood out for Vålerenga last year.

The final part of an exciting trio of attacking midfielders, is Bård Finne. The 25 year old Norwegian was top scorer with eight goals last year, after 10 in the 2018 season. Short but very accomplished on the ball, he is also a very calm finisher.

He will likely start from the left hand side, cutting in on his right foot both to deliver crosses and be a goal threat. He is also the set piece taker for Vålerenga, and his dead ball delivery could be a big weapon this season.

With some exciting attacking talent, they perhaps are short of a number 9 to finish off chances. But with the defense likely to be tougher this year, Vålerenga are in a similar position to Stabæk, where they could easily find themselves further up the league than I predict.

Prediction 12th


Here is a look at my predicted table. I think teams from 4th to 12th could easily switch around and finish anywhere as we are set for another season where anyone can beat anyone in Eliteserien.


We can keep an eye on how wrong I was come the end of the season, and please keep following my blog as I will be reviewing every game week, and perhaps maybe picking one game for a report every week.