Gameweek 19 Preview

Bodø/Glimt took another giant step towards securing their first ever title last week, and this week they travelled to Milan for a huge game against AC Milan in Europa League.

Molde and Rosenborg were also in midweek European action and they have to balance those games with another round of league fixtures this weekend. Eight games over the two days, will Vålerenga be the team that can finally stop Glimt in their tracks, and will Aalesund ever win again.

Saturday 26th September

Molde v Sandefjord (Home Win)

The league form of Molde has completely disappeared, as has any chance of a title repeat. They are 16 points behind Glimt now after another defeat, their 6th in the last 9 games. 

Last weekend it wasn't a surprise off of the back of their European exploits, but Vålerenga beat them fairly comfortably, a late goal from Henry Wingo making the scoreline respectable in a 2-1 defeat, although they had played the 2nd half with 10 man after Kitolano was sent off.

Sandefjord played out a tactical affair with Strømsgodset in which they were probably a little lucky to come out with a 0-0 scoreline. It was a poor offensive display from Sandefjord and they will look to offer more this weekend.

Molde played Ferencvaros Wednesday night, fighting back from 2-0 down to lead 3-2, before a late penalty denied them a win. They play the return leg on Tuesday in Hungary, so I'm expecting plenty changes to the team on Saturday.

Molde have the ability to rotate with Brynhildsen, Ulland Andersen, Holmgren Pedersen, Omoijuanfo and Tobias Christensen, so expect to see all of them this weekend. They are all good players and although obviously Erling Moe doesn't see them as first choice right now, they are all capable.

I think being at home, and with the way they fought back on Wednesday night, I can see Molde being good enough to beat Sandefjord, but not as comfortably as they normally would if they didn't have the Champions League games.

Despite their defeats, Molde have still scored in every game this season, so no doubt that will continue here. Sandefjord have won 3 times away from home, but they have lost the other six, and they concede two goals on average on the road.

Molde have won every home game, except one, and they have scored 24 goals in the process, conceding just five. Although in their previous four games, they have failed to score in the first half, so maybe expect them to do their damage in the second half in this one.

Molde have conceded 4+ corners in every game, except two, this season. Sandefjord will be a good price to hit 4+, and given the rotation and fixture list for Molde, it is well worth it. 

Bet Builder: Molde to win 2nd half, 9+ corners in the match (2.33)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Eirik Andersen (2.05), Brynhildsen (2.20) or Gussiås (4.00)

Strømsgodset v Sarpsborg (Draw)

Godset played out that 0-0 draw with Sandefjord last week, they hit the bar and were slightly the better team, but now they are four without a win, and infact it's only two wins in their last ten games as they sit in 12th place in the table.

Sarpsborg won 2-0 at home to beleaguered Mjøndalen, as first half goals from Mos and Halvorsen were enough to give them a comfortable and deserved win. They have jumped up to 8th with their second win on the bounce, although they are only two points ahead of Godset in 12th.

This is a real tough one to pick a winner, two pretty even and inconsistent teams, with pretty different styles. Godset press high and score enough goals at home (15) but concede even more (18). Sarpsborg prefer to hit on the break away from home, as they have only scored 8, so they don't throw bodies forward.

Godset do generally score goals at home, at least two in 5 of their last 7 home games, but they leave themselves open, so both teams to score is quite likely this week. The reverse fixture finished 2-3 in Sarpsborg, two penalties helping the away side.

Last week is only the second time this season a Godset match has had had fewer than two goals in it, so I think we can expect them to return to their mean this weekend.

Sarpsborg beat Aalesund in their last away game, but their three previous were heavy defeats, conceding 3, 5 and 4 respectively.

I think we could see a high scoring draw here, but it is definitely a game in which I won't be surprised by any result, so it is tough to back results.

Corners can be looked at here as well, Godset games have had at least 9 corners in 11 games in a row, Sarpsborg have had at least 9 in 9 of their last 12 games. 

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, 9+ corners (2.15)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Salvesen (2.60), Mos Abdellaoue (2.60) or Heintz (4.33)

Sunday 27th September 

Aalesund v Rosenborg (Away Win)

Aalesund remain cut adrift at the bottom of Eliteserien as they remain on just one win all season. Goals from Nordli and Haugen last time out, only consolations as they shipped five against Viking.

Rosenborg come into this one after an excellent win over Alanyaspor in the Europa League. Anders Konradsen giving them a 1-0 win, and a tie against PSV in the next round.

Last week RBK came from behind to beat Haugesund, second half goals from Islamovic and Hedenstad giving them a narrow 2-1 win.

The away form of Rosenborg is the main worry in this one, winning only one in the previous 5 away fixtures. Although Aalesund obviously are a long way behind, I can see them causing Rosenborg a little bit of trouble in the first half here.

Aalesund have scored in the first half in 12 of their games, compared to only in the second half of 7 games. Add to that the European exploits for Rosenborg, I can see the home side getting a first half goal here.

RBK have scored 65% of their goals in the second half, so they usually take time to get going, and I can imagine it will be similar this week.

They have also scored 2+ in 8 of their previous 10 games, including the last 6 in a row. add to that they hit at least 5 corners almost every week(9 in last 10), you can guarantee RBK will be attacking plenty and we know how vulnerable Aalesund can be, especially to set pieces.

Islamovic is suspended this week, so Børven will be up top on his own, and hitting penalties, so worth a look at him scoring.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, RBK 2+ goals, 9+ match corners (3.00)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Børven (1.95), Zacahriassen (3.10) or Haugen (4.33)

Haugesund v Odd (Away Win)

Haugesund were the latest team to lose at Lerkendal last week, despite Kristoffer Velde continuing his decent season with his 6th goal.

Odd on the other hand were back to winning ways with a comfortable 2-0 home win over Stabæk. The very impressive Elbasan Rashani got the opener, and the win was confirmed by the evergreen Espen Ruud, continuing to defy his 36 years of age.

Odd have won 7 out of 9 games now, only Molde and Glimt beating them in the current run, and they currently sit level on points with Molde, on 3rd place by their inferior goal difference.

Haugesund lost their last two games, and in fact it is four of the previous six they have lost, as they slip to 11th in the table. They are a decent side, particularly at home, where they have picked up 13 of their 21 points. They have however lost four times, and Odd come here in great form and are the superior team.

Odd have a great midfield 5, they all stand out and that is where they do most of their good work. If they had a top striker I am sure they would win even more games. I think they can win that midfield battle with Haugesund, 

Haugesund have only managed 19 goals all season, so they do struggle to find the net often, although their 27 conceded is the fewest of any team in te bottom half. I don't think it will be a hugely open encounter, but I do think Odd will win.

Haugesund home games average well over 12 corners, so I will be adding corners to the bet builder, at least 9 in eight of their nine home games.

Bet Builder: Odd draw/win double chance and 9+ corners (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet builder: Rashani (3.00), Velde (4.33) or Lunding (4.50)

Kristiansund v Brann (Home Win)

Kristiansund saw off Start last weekend 2-1 in the Kristian derby, as they travelled south to Kristiansand. It was two direct free kicks that gave them the win, Amahl Pellegrino with his right, then Christofer Aasbak with his left.

Brann are really struggling now, early season promise has given way to mediocre displays, and their early season star, Gilbert Koomson has diseappeared on the pitch, and wants to disappear out the club before the end of the month.

Amahl Pellegrino is Kristiansund this season, he is the main candidate to win player of the year outside of half of the Glimt team, as he now sits on 18 league goals. Six games in a row he has scored, so I will be backing him to do so again against a Brann team that has given away 9 goals in 3 games. 

Two wins in 11 games for Brann is really not good enough, and Kristiansund will fancy their chances, having won 6 of their previous 8 games. They also score plenty goals usually, scoring at least two in 7 of their previous 8 games, just 1 against Odd.

Both teams have scored and conceded in 8 of the last 10, so I think it is likely both teams will score, but KBK will get at least one more than their visitors.

KBK sit two points behind 4th and 5th placed teams, Rosenborg and Vålerenga, so they will be out chasing a European spot. Meanwhile Brann sit only two points clear of Strømsgodset in 13th, as they risk being dragged down the league from 10th.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, over 2.5 goals, Kristiansund to win either half (2.50)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Pellegrino (2.05), Bye (2.75) or Strand (3.75)

Mjøndalen v Viking (Away Win)

Mjøndalen suffered their 11th defeat in 13 as they were well beaten at Sarpsborg at the weekend as they now find themselves six points behind safety. 

Viking scored five goals for the second consecutive gameweek, putting 5 passed Aalesund in a 5-2 victory. That is 13 goals in three games, as Bytyqi and Berisha continue their excellent form in attack.

This is a game of two teams in completely opposite form, and I find it hard to see how Mjøndalen can stop Viking this weekend. Viking have scored at least two goals in their previous 6 games, and have won four in a row. 

Mjøndalen are in freefall, just two wins in 13, surrounded by those 11 defeats. Even worse reading is the 3 goals scored in the last 9 games. They have managed only 13 goals all season, stark comparison to the 34 scored by Viking.

Viking do concede plenty, 35 in total, but even that doesn't give much hope to Mjøndalen given how poor they are in attack.

I can't understand why Viking are better than evens for this game, and it is worth backing completely. Mjøndalen haven't done a lot well recently. The solid defense they built some decent early results on has disappeared, conceding 12 in their last 4 games.

Viking are up to 7th, and a win this weekend could see them close the gap on teams above them as they continue their push for a return to Europe, after they were beaten by Aberdeen last Thursday.

Bet Builder: Viking 2+ goals, and Viking to win either half (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Bytyqi (3.60), Berisha (2.50) or Ibrahimaj (4.33)

Stabæk v Start (Home win)

Stabæk lost at Odd last weekend 2-0, and they are in a little bit of trouble with one win in the last nine. They sit 7 points clear of Start who sit in that relegation playoff spot, so this week is a big game for both clubs.

Start lost 2-1 at home to Kristiansund, a late Christian Bolanos goal was only a consolation, and now they need to start perofmring better on the road, only two points so far.

Stabæk are very steady at home, 3 wins, draws and defeats as they seem to struggle for consistency. Nine goals for and 10 against in their nine home games tells the story of a team that maybe struggle to open up at home.

Start have scored only 7 goals on the road, so I'm not expecting many goals in this game, although Start have conceded 17 goals in their previous four away games. A quick note though, that includes Glimt, Molde and Kristiansund, the top 3 scorers in the league.

The reverse fixture perhaps unsurprisingly was 0-0, and although I think we will see at least one goal in this one it will be tight. Emil Bohinen is likely to miss out for Stabæk, the midfielder is a big part of play from central midfield. For Start, Eirik Schulze is suspended, so both teams missing crucial players.

At least 8 corners is likely, that has happened in 9 games in a row for Stabæk, and in 10 of the last 12 for Start.

I think Stabæk will get the win here, but it will be very tight and a 0-0 or 1-1 draw would not surprise me come the end of the game Sunday.

Bet Builder: Stabæk to win either half, 8+ corners in the match, 4 or fewer goals in the match (2.60)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Vetlesen (4.33), Skytte (4.33) or Bringaker (3.75)

Bodø/Glimt v Vålerenga (Home Win) 

Glimt were introduced to the rest of Europe on Thursday night with that impressive display in Milan on Thursday. Losing 3-2 at the San Siro, but playing some excellent front foot football, they won many plaudits and deservedly so. Jens Petter Hauge was outstanding, and now the rumour mill is well and truly under way as he could well be on the way out for a lot of money.

Last week they remained unbeaten in the league with a nice 3-1 win against Brann in Bergen. Goals from Hauge, and an excellent double from Philip Zinckernagel takes them on to 14 and 13 goals respectively.

Vålerenga beat Molde at home 2-1, a good display as they remained unbeaten at home. Another goal from Kjartansson was added to by Aron Dønnum as they held on against 10 man Molde. 

This is a tough game for Glimt 3 days after that game in Milan, but they return from that with even more confidence in themselves I'd imagine. They have won every home game this season and Vålerenga will know how tough this is.

The away side have not got a great record, just three wins in nine games, completely different to how good they have looked at home. This long journey to Bodø will not be easy, but I think we will see goals as usual in Glimt games.

Glimt have scored six in their last two home games, but I doubt we will see so many. Their matches have all had at least three goals, something that has happened in all of the last eight Vålerenga games. 

Glimt do concede, and with Vålerenga in scoring form, at least a goal in nine in a row, they should get on the scoresheet, but they only have nine away goals, so it might be tough for them here.

I fancy Glimt to remain unbeaten, and I think they will win again. It might be tough with the Milan game not long ago, but I'm sure they have the energy and quality to create and score chances.

Brunstad Fet is suspended for this one, so we will probably see Solbakken, and it is possible Hauge has a slight injury, so it will be interesting to see how the odds are come kick off.

Bet Builder: Glimt to win either half, both teams to score, over 2.5 goals in the game (2.00)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Boniface (2.10), Saltnes (3.75) or Kjartansson (2.50)

Eliteserien Bets of the Week

Viking to beat Mjøndalen (2.1) NAP

Odd 0.0 Asian Handicap v Haugesund (1.97) 

Amahl Pellegrino to score v Brann (2.05)

Vålerenga to score in the First Half v Glimt (2.2)

Gameweek 18 Preview

Gameweek 18 in Eliteserien as Glimt continue to remain unbeaten. Four teams come into this gameweek after European games, Molde in particular will likely feel the effects of a trip to Cyprus and 120 minutes of football.

This week all 16 teams are back in action, with two games on Saturday and six games on Sunday, as the battle intensifies for European spots, as well as at the bottom.

Saturday 19th September

Vålerenga v Molde (Home Win)

Normally I'd be backing Molde to get the job done in Oslo against Vålerenga, but three days after a grueling 120 minutes in Cyprus, they travel to Vålerenga for a really tough game. 

The home side remain unbeaten at home this season, and last week the headlines were written by new signing Vidar Kjartansson, who scored a first half hattrick on his return to the club. 

They were 5-1 up at half time Vålerenga, and Brann had no answer for their attacking play. Kjartansson gives them a real finisher up top, something they have been lacking.

Molde come in to this game on a mental high having beaten Qarabag on penalties on Wednesday night. A tough match in the heat of Cyprus, but they have a chance of Champions League football for the first time since 1999, if they can get passed Ferencvaros.

I think given the game on Wednesday, and the fact Vålerenga are unbeaten this season at home, I can see Molde losing this one. They have lost 4 in a row away from home, which is really surprising, but now the league is gone, they can rest some legs and really go for that Champions League spot.

I'm definitely looking at goals here, Vålerenga have scored and conceded in 7 in a row now, Molde have scored in their last 4 away games, even in defeat. 

I think Vålerenga to score in the first half will be a good bet, given how they started the game last week, and that Molde will maybe be feeling the effects of Wednesday night.

Can probably look at corners too, the previous 11 Vålerenga, and 7 Molde games have had at least 8 corners, so something to add it to a bet builder.

The price of the home team has really dropped since Wednesday night, and I think Vålerenga will get the job done here as they push for a European spot themselves.

Bet builder: Both teams to score, Over 2.5 goals, 8+ corners (2.05)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Kjartansson(2.37), Brynhildsen(3.00) or Sahraoui(4.75)

Sarpsborg v Mjøndalen (Home Win)

Sarpsborg got a really good 1-0 win at Aalesund last week despite losing Larsen and Coulibaly in the build up to the game. New man Tobias Heintz, brought in to replace Coulibaly, got on the scoresheet with a calm finish in the first half. He looked very lively and could have had another goal in the second half.

Mjøndalen are in deep trouble as they languish in 15th place in the table, 5 points from safety. Last week was a huge game for them at home to Sandefjord, but they lost 2-0. Markus Nakkim missed a penalty at 0-0 which proved extremely costly, and they have now lost 10 of their last 12 games.

This game is massive again for Mjøndalen, if they lose here they are cut adrift, and it is a game I think will not be one to watch. Two defensive teams that don't score a lot of goals, just 32 between them in the 17 games so far.

Sarpsborg are a decent enough side, and before Glimt came to town two gameweeks ago, they had gone 5 at home without losing. Mjøndalen have picked up 8 points on the road, with their two wins coming at Brann and Aalesund. 

The last time Mjøndalen scored more than 1 goal in a game, was on the 18th of July in a 3-2 defeat, so I can't see them scoring more than one here, if they do at all. Sarpsborg have scored twice at home in four of their nine games, so they aren't exactly prolific.

The reverse fixture at Mjøndalen was 1-0 to the home side, and I think a reverse scoreline could be on the cards here. Mjøndalen have not had a 0-0 since gameweek 1, but plenty of 1-0 and 2-0 score lines.

Bet Builder: Under 3.5 goals, Sarpsborg to win either half (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Heintz(3.60), Jonathon Lindseth(3.60) or Olden Larsen(5.00)

Sunday 20th September

Brann v Bodø/Glimt (Away Win)

Brann are the latest team to try and stop Glimt going unbeaten all season. But they come into this after a 5-1 hammering in Vålerenga, and having dropped to 9th in the table having won only 2 out of 9 games.

Glimt beat Odd 6-1 last weekend, an incredible display had them 4-1 up at the break, despite going behind after 45 seconds. More goals from Hauge, Boniface and Saltnes as they each bagged a brace.

They followed that up with a win in the Europa League, 3-1 over Zalgiris Vilnius, with goals from Zinckernagel, Boniface and Patrick Berg. They now go on to face AC Milan in Milan, which is a huge test for the club and a very exciting tie for the players.

This game comes three days after that Europa League win, but given the game was at home, and nowhere near as draining as Molde's game, I expect they should recover fine. It isn't a big squad they have, but we might see one or two changes, but definitely not the full team.

Last week again Glimt scored in both halves(my NAP of the week), and that makes it 14 of 17 they have done that, scoring in 31 of 34 halves of football.

Brann have only kept one clean sheet at home all season, so they are not likely to be the defense to stop the Glimt train rolling on. Glimt won 5-0 in the reverse fixture, and although I don't see such a hammering again, I can't see Brann winning this one.

Glimt have only kept 4 clean sheets all season, so they do concede, and all 17 of their games have had at least 3 goals in them, so as usual goals is the angle in this game.

At least 9 corners in the game has happened nine in a row for Brann, and seven in a row for Glimt, so worth adding it to the bets.

Bet Builder: over 2.5 goals, both teams to score, 9+ corners (2.05)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Hauge(1.95), Strand(4.00) or Boniface(2.10)

Rosenborg v Haugesund (Home Win)

Rosenborg fought back from 3-1 down at Strømsgodset last weekend to snatch a late draw thanks to an 87th minute Islamovic header. Torgeir Børven also got a goal, as well as a first goal back at RBK for Per Ciljan Skjelbred.

They followed that up with an easy 5-1 away win in Europe at an extremely windy Ventspils in Latvia. The pitch was poor, and the weather awful, but they got the job done nice and easily.

Haugesund were perhaps a little unlucky in losing 2-1 at Stabæk. They should have been ahead in the game, but lost it late on after failing to take a number of chances.

Rosenborg lost the reverse fixture 1-0 at Haugesund, but their home form as been very decent this year despite early season problems. They have won 5 and drawn 3 of their home games, only Glimt managing to beat them at Lerkendal.

Haugesund have picked up 8 of their 21 points on the road, but have managed to score only 6 goals in the 8 games so far, so it is clear where their problem lies.

With some potential tiredness and a few injury doubts, I can actually see Haugesund scoring in this one, but Rosenborg have been scoring plenty goals recently. It is 15 in the last 5 games for the Trondheim club, so expect maybe another 3 here to keep that going.

Haugesund games usually have plenty corners in them with the way they defend the box and attack with plenty crosses. At least 8 corners in 16 games, they average over 11 corners, as do Rosenborg.

I think the home side will win this one, it might take them until the second half to get going, 20 goals in the second half compared to 12 in the first half shows that has been the general story.

Bet Builder: RBK 2+ goals, 9+ match corners (2.07)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Islamovic (2.60), Holse (3.75) or Velde (5.50)

Sandefjord v Strømsgodset (Draw)

Sandefjord got another really impressive win away at Mjøndalen last week, and there was another goal from Sivert Gussiås who continues to look like a good young striker with a big future in Norway, 7 now for the season.

Vidar Jonsson got the other goal as Sandefjord moved four points clear of the relegation playoff spot.

Strømsgodset should have beaten Rosenborg after Lars Jørgen Salvesen and Johan Hove had helped to give them a 3-1 lead. But they only drew which leaves them in 12th place, just above Sandefjord, having won only 2 of their last 9 games.

The goals conceded column is the story for Strømsgodset, 35 in 17 games, the second worst in the league, and Sandefjord having scored in 10 of their previous 11 games will fancy their chances to do so again here.

This game finished 3-4 at Godset in a thrilling contest, and lets hope for more of the same. Goals are expected from both teams, Sandefjord themselves getting only their third clean sheet of the season last week.

Neither of these teams have had a 0-0 draw yet this season, so we shouldn't expect a tight game.(have I jinxed it?) 

It could be a competitive game, both teams like a card, and I'd be looking at the likely event of at least a couple cards each in this one.

It is hard to call this one, any result with goals in it wouldn't surprise me. The only thing that would surprise me is a low scoring game with few chances.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (1.90)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Salvesen(2.75), Gussiås(2.87) or Celorrio (3.20)

Start v Kristiansund (Draw)

Start are still fighting to get out of the relegation playoff spot, and it is their home form that will give them the chance to do it. They had a free week last week, so it has been 3 weeks since their last game, that crucial 1-0 win over Aalesund.

Kristiansund were on the wrong end of an 8 goal thriller with Viking last weekend. Despite that there was another two goals from Amahl Pellegrino, taking him on to 17 goals for the season and well clear at the top of the race to become top scorer.

Start have managed to win their previous three home games, and are unbeaten in six at home now. That has been crucial as they have picked up 13 of their 15 points in the Sør Arena.

KBK are a good away side though, picking up13 points on the road, the joint second highest total in the table, obviously behind Glimt. They counter attack pretty well, doing so effectively in recent wins at Sandefjord and Viking. 

The pace of Pellegrino could well be a problem for Start, especially if they open up. They need to win so I expect they will leave some gaps at the back. KBK have scored in 15 of 17 games, so I expect they will do so again.

They have also conceded in 14 of 17, so although I maybe don't see loads of goals, I can see at least 1 each. Kevin Kabran is suspended for Start in this one, and they will miss his creativity however. 

The reverse fixture was won 3-2, Pellegrino, Bye and Coly scoring, but I'd be surprised if it is quite as high scoring this time.

Hard to find an angle in this game for betting as corners is pretty inconsistent for both, and unsure if Start will really open up, especially in the first half.

Again a game I can see any result happening, KBK chasing European spots, Start looking to get closer to the teams above them, this could go anywhere.

Bet Builder: 4 or fewer goals in the game, Both teams to score (2.15)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Pellegrino(2.20), Skålevik(2.50) or Bye(3.00)

Viking v Aalesund (Home Win)

Viking were dumped out of Europe on Thursday night by Aberdeen as they lost 2-0 on their home patch. It was a disappointing result in what was a fairly even game in which both sides missed chances.

They had scored five at the weekend against Kristiansund, Veton Berisha continuing his great form, 8 in the last 6 games now. Zymer Bytyqi and Ibrahimaj are both playing well too and they should manage some goals this weekend.

Aalesund lost their second consecutive 1-0 under new management, although they were a touch unlucky, twice hitting the woodwork. Also there was bad news as top scorer Fridjonsson was injured early on, he probably should have scored but he has rolled his ankle from the challenge during the chance, and will miss out this weekend.

Viking have won three in a row, five unbeaten, to take them up to 8th in the table as they look to challenge the top six. A win here is pretty likely, despite the three days rest, but they have to be wary of Aalesund on the break.

One thing I do like potentially is Aalesund to score in the first half. They score 66% of their goals in the first half, and maybe Viking will have a slight Europa League hangover.

Fifteen goals in five games for Viking, they can expect to add to it here against a team that has conceded in every game this season, 48 in total. They do look more solid, but they still give up chances with individual mistakes.

Viking do concede plenty, nearly two a game on average, so I can see Aalesund creating chances, but without their main striker someone else will have to score for a change. That means this is likely to end in a home win.

Bet Builder: Aalesund to score in FH, Both teams to score (2.40)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Berisha (1.95), Haugen (3.60) or Bytyqi (2.75)

Odd v Stabæk (Home Win) 

Odd were embarrassed by Glimt last week, but they weren't the first, and won't be the last this season. In general Odd have been excellent, only Glimt and Molde have stopped them winning in their last eight games.

Stabæk picked up that great win over Haugesund, a fantastic curling winner from Darren Maatsen, his first for the club after injury issues have stopped him so far this season. Captain Andreas Hanche-Olsen celebrated his national team call up by scoring, then scoring at the wrong end, but Maatsen got 3 points to lift Stabæk to 7th in the table.

Odd have won 5 in a row at home, including 6-1 last time out against Mjøndalen. They have a nice fluidity about their attack with Kitolano, Kaasa, Lunding and Rashani all good ball players. Bakenga has picked up a few goals too as they try to take second place from Molde, currently three points back.

Stabæk have only won twice on the road, but they have only lost twice as well, the draw specialists of the league picking up 10 points from the 8 games.

Odd's last four home wins have produced plenty goals, as they have scored and conceded in all four of them, but the reverse fixture in this game was 0-1, so it is the only doubt I have regarding goals.

I like both teams offensively, and I am sure Odd will be looking to bounce back with a good win. I do think there will be goals, Stabæk have scored in 7 of 8 away games, and they counter attack pretty well.

I think Odd will get a win here, but hopefully it is a really good game to end the weekend. One other thing of note is Stabæk have hit 4+ corners in 7 of their last 8 games, and are 1.90 to do so again.

Bet Builder: Over 2.5 goals, Odd to win either half (2.05)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Bakenga (2.20), Lunding(3.75) or Maatsen (4.75)

Eliteserien Bets of the Week

Last week saw me get my NAP right for the 4th week in a row, and also nail 5 of the 7 Bet Builders, all valued at over even money. So lets hope for more of the same!

Glimt to score in BH (1.90) NAP

Over 3.0 goals on Asian Goal line Sandefjord v Strømsgodset (2.05)

Stabæk to hit 4+ corners (1.90)

Division one bets I like

Åsane -1 to beat Øygarden (2.2)

Sandnes ULF Draw or Win Double Chance v Tromsø (1.90)

Gameweek 17 Preview

Eliteserien is back this weekend after the international break, with seven fixtures taking place over the weekend. Molde and Start have a free weekend as everyone else plays the fixture they have in hand over those two.

Molde travel to Qarabag in Azerbaijan during the week for a Champions League qualifier, so this gives Glimt a chance to extend their lead at the top to 13 points.

With transfer windows open throughout Europe still, Eliteserien has been getting picked apart a little with some top young players leaving for clubs all over the continent. Will mention that in the individual game previews.

With Glimt still unbeaten after 16 games and looking like nailed on title winners, can they not only win their first ever title, but do it without losing a single game?

Saturday 12th September

Kristiansund v Viking (Home Win)

Kristiansund picked up an excellent 2-0 win on the road against Sandefjord in the last game week. Absolutely no prizes for guessing the goalscorer, as Amahl Pellegrino picked up another two goals, taking him on to 15 goals in the 15 games he has played this season, four clear of the Glimt attacking trio now.

There was also news of a professional contract for Noah Solskjær, son of Ole Gunnar, who signed a one year deal with KBK just this week.

In gameweek 16 the surprise of the week came in Stavanger as Viking beat Molde 3-2. In a really entertaining encounter Viking were clinical with their chances, goals from Berisha, Ibrahimaj and Torsteinbø giving them a much needed win as they moved up to 10th in the table.

Unfortunately this week it looks like they will be without left back Adrian Pereira, who looks set to sign for PAOK in Greece. I wrote about Viking in a piece on here and mentioned how important Pereira and Bytyqi linking up has been to Viking tactically, but the 21 year old looks set to move on for 12 million NOK.

This game though should be a really open and good game for the neutral. There is 57 goals scored between them so far in the 16 games, so we should definitely be expecting a game with plenty goals. When they met in Stavanger on the 2nd of August it was 1-2 to the away side, and Kristiansund will be hoping they can continue what has been a really impressive run of form.

The home side have won 5 out of their last 6 games, only losing once in 8 games, a 2-1 reverse against Odd, as they have jumped up to 5th in the table, hot on the heels of Rosenborg and Odd.

I personally think Kristiansund could get the win at home, they have only lost once at home this season, and Viking have only won twice on the road. I'm definitely not expecting either side to be keeping a clean sheet. Both teams have only three this season, so both teams to score very likely here, as well as plenty goals.

Pellegrino has scored 7 in the last 6 games, and scored for four games running too, so no doubt he will be looking to continue that run against a team that has conceded 30 goals this season. Viking themselves have scored 10 in their last four games, so they are in very good goalscoring form.

I won't be surprised by a win either way in this one, but if there isn't goals in it, it would be a real shock. Also in matches involving both teams, there is an average of over 11 corners, with at least 9 coming in all of the previous 10 Viking fixtures.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, over 2.5 goals, 9+ match corners (2.20)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Pellegrino (2.05), Berisha (2.62), Bytyqi (4.00)

Stabæk v Haugesund (Draw)

Stabæk come into this one having not won in 7 games, and after dropping into the bottom half of the table. They did manage a respectable 2-2 draw at Rosenborg last time out, coming from behind twice to salvage a point. 

Goals from one of my favourites, Hugo Vetlesen, and a late equaliser from Oliver Edvardsen will hopefully spark this young team on to winning a game. They had switched to a 4-4-2 for this game, and the goal threat of Vetlesen and Edvardsen was helped by the two strikers, Kinoshita and Botheim, occupying defenders.

There was also news on the international front, as defender and captain Andreas Hanche-Olsen was called up to the national team for the first time, although didn't manage to get on against Northern Ireland.

Haugesund played one of their best games of the season last time out beating Vålerenga at home 2-1. Another of my favourites, Kristoffer Velde, curled in a beautiful effort to give them the lead, and Ibrahima Wadji scored in his second consecutive game, heading in a Mikkel Dessler cross.

This game is really tough to pick a winner, and it could be a low scoring affair too. Stabæk have scored a measly 7 goals at home in 8 games, and Haugesund have only managed 5 away from home. It doesn't make for a high scoring affair.

The reverse fixture finished 3-1 in Haugesund, so maybe when they play against each other it is slightly different, but I won't be betting on goals.

Haugesund have failed to score in 4 of 7 away fixtures, while Stabæk have failed in 4 of 8 home fixtures. Unfortunately for Haugesund, Velde is suspended for this one after a fourth booking last time out, and they will miss his energy, aggression and goals threat from the left hand side.

Haugesund have won two in a row to lift them just above Stabæk, but this game I can't pick a winner, so I won't. Stabæk have 7 draws, the most in the league so far, and I would almost be tempted to back to draw at a good price.

Bet Builder: Under 3.5 goals, 9+ corners (2.00)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Wadji (2.75), Vetlesen (5.00), Edvardsen (2.87)

Sunday 13th September

Aalesund v Sarpsborg (Home Win)

Aalesund under new manager Lars Arne Nielsen lost out narrowly 1-0 to Start in his first game in charge, and he will be desperate to get a first win to try and breathe some life into the bottom of the table club.

Sarpsborg have had a terrible two weeks, first losing 3-0 at home to Bodø/Glimt, then losing probably their two best young players this week. Jørgen Strand Larsen, off the back of a hattrick for the under 21 side, has signed for Groningen in the Netherlands.

Possibly even worse news for the team is Ismaila Coulibaly leaving to join Belgian club K Beerschot VA. Coulibaly has been a revelation this season, the teenager has broken onto the scene and looked a really classy player, controlling games from midfield. He will be hard to replace, as will the hold up play and general striking ability of Strand Larsen.

Admittedly the money for both players will help the club, but they will be missed on the pitch.

It is for this reason I fancy Aalesund to get a win this week, as striker Holmbert Fridjonsson, fresh off a goal against Belgium for Iceland in the week, is still at the club to do the business for them, although there is still plenty interest, particularly from Italy.

One win all season for Aalesund which came against Start, but Sarpsborg have lost their last two games by 3 goals, and now with holes in their team, Aalesund have to go and try and win this game.

The new manager will certainly tighten up the defense, but they need to remain a threat at the other end, they have scored in every home game this season and should be doing so again here.

Sarpsborg have lost 5 of 7 on the road, with only one win, so they are poor away from home, and it is a long trip to Aalesund for them. It is difficult to look at goals in this game with the new manager at Aalesund, and with two goal threats for Sarpsborg away, so despite the history of Aalesund this season, I will avoid that.

Bet Builder: Aalesund win/draw double chance, 11 or fewer corners in the match (2.04)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Fridjonsson (2.20), Castro (2.50) or Mos Abdellaoue (2.37)

Bodø/Glimt v Odd (Home Win) 

A 13 point lead for beating Odd is the prize for the Glimt machine as they look to remain perfect at home. Last time out they beat Sarpsborg 3-0, two goals from Philip Zinckernagel, and a penalty goal for Hauge giving them an easy win in the end.

That is 11 goals a piece for the wingers as they join Junker on that number. 33 goals between 3 players, impressive stuff.

Odd were in scintillating form themselves, carving open Mjøndalen time and time again, scoring six in a 6-1 victory. Defender Espen Ruud bagged himself a couple, as did Mushaga Bakenga, all in the first half. In the second half their goals were added to by Elbasan Rashani, and finally by Birk Risa as Mjøndalen collapsed.

Odd have won 6 of their last 7 games, defeat coming at Molde two games ago, as they look to nail down third place in the league.

It should be a very interesting game this one, both teams scoring goals and creating plenty chances, two exciting teams. Kasper Junker may well return for Glimt up top, although Boniface has done well as his replacement recently.

I can't see past Glimt in this one again, although I can definitely see Odd getting a goal and making the game interesting. The away side generally keep it tight on the road, just six conceded in seven games so far. 

The reverse fixture however saw Glimt win 0-4, Espen Ruud was sent off in the 15th minute though, so not a fair reflection of the teams.

I think we can back goals here, probably for both sides, and as I did last time, I will be backing Glimt to score in both halves, as they did again in Sarpsborg. 29 out of 32 halves of football they have scored, so it looks like a good bet to me.

Odd corners might be worth backing, they have hit 5 or more in every away game except one in a bad display at Sarpsborg.

Bet Builder: Glimt to score in Both Halves, Both teams to score (2.60)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Zinckernagel (2.00), Saltnes (3.50), Bakenga (3.25)

Mjøndalen v Sandefjord (Draw)

Mjøndalen come into this off the back of that horrendous display at Odd, and find themselves 15th in the table now behind Start. Those two 1-0 wins they had in August now look a little bit of an outlier, as they have lost 9 games in their last 11.

Sandefjord sit 13th after their defeat at home to Kristiansund, it was the first time they have failed to score in a game since the 5th of July, so they will be hoping it is a one off,

This game is unlikely to produce many goals, I think Mjøndalen could play far more defensively after the way Odd ripped them to pieces and given they are the lowest scoring side in the league with only 13 goals, there won't be many at the other end.

Mjøndalen are in big trouble this season, they are hardly scoring, and early season defensive strength is gone, no doubt the pressure of having to keep clean sheets has caught up with them.

The reverse fixture ended 1-0 to Sandefjord, and I can see this game being another one with either no goals or one goal. It is hard to pick a winner with both sides having plenty weaknesses, although Sandefjord have looked likely to score goals, which will worry Mjøndalen.

Deyver Vega has signed for Sandefjord from Vålerenga. The Costa Rican didn't get going in Oslo, but maybe a new home can help the winger find his best form.

It is hard to find betting angles in this one, although I can see Sandefjord grabbing at least 1 goals, given they had scored in 9 games in a row before last week.

Bet Builder: Sandefjord to score 1+ goals, Under 3.5 goals in the match (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Gussiås (3.40), Brochmann (3.40) or Celorrio (3.75)

Strømsgodset v Rosenborg (Draw)

Godset drew 1-1 away at Brann last time out, 20 year old midfielder Johan Hove grabbing the goal after they had fallen behind in the first half. Officially the youngest team in the league so far this season  averaging under 25 years of age, Godset have had issues defensively in particular this season, conceding 2 goals a game on average.

Rosenborg will be playing their first game under new manager Åge Hareide this week, looking to jump Odd in the league and move into 3rd place. Last time out RBK were disappointed to draw with Stabæk, Tagseth and then a Børven penalty had twice given them the lead, but they couldn't hold on.

I think this game should produce plenty goals, RBK won the reverse fixture 3-0, and this fixture in November last season produced a 3-3 classic. I think more of the same will happen, with both teams scoring and a nice open high pressing game.

Godset have conceded 32 goals this season, scoring 23, and RBK have scored 12 goals in their previous 4 games combined, so if there is a clean sheet here I'd be surprised.

RBK have tried to sort their left back issues out with the signing of Pa Konate from Jonkopings in Sweden, the 26 year old Swedish born, Guinean international(and Swedish before that) will be a natural option for them in that position.

Helland looks likely to miss out in this game, and I think that helps as Carlo Holse will play on the right wing where he has looked his most dangerous recently. 

If I had to pick a winner I would probably go for the away side, but they have only 3 wins on the road and so could well be more likely a scoring draw.

Also will be looking for at least 8 corners. That has happened in all but one Godset game, and all but two Rosenborg games.

Another thing to note is Børven is now on RBK penalties, so worth having him on to score in this one as RBK spend plenty time in the opposition box.

Bet Builder: over 2.5 goals, Both teams to score and 8+ match corners (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Børven (2.00), Mawa (3.20) or Holse (3.75)

Vålerenga v Brann (Home Win)

Vålerenga were really poor last time out against Haugesund, and they have gone into the transfer market to try and fix that. 

First in the door was Vidar Örn Kjartansson, the striker who scored 7 in 15 for Hammarby in Allsvenskan last year, joins from Rostov in Russia. He scored 25 in 29 games back in 2014 for Vålerenga, so the 30 year old will be looking for more of that form on his return.

He has been a regular scorer in Israel with Maccabi Tel Aviv, as well as at Malmö in Sweden, so he looks like a really good signing.

Also coming in is Henrik Bjørdal from Zulte Waregem in Belgium. The former Aalesund midfielder, and Norwegian U21 international is coming back to Norway, and at 23 years old has plenty experience from abroad already as he looks to show what he can do in Vålerenga.

Unfortunately it looks like Aron Dønnum could be on his way out the door, with Lecce looking the most likely destination. His replacement could well be former Odd star, Rafik Zekhnini, but that has not been settled yet.

Brann meanwhile haven't improved the squad and it will be up to new man Kåre Ingebritsen to move them up the table. 

Brann have a much better away record than home record, taking 13 of their 22 points on the road. But Vålerenga are unbeaten at home this season, including a recent draw with Bodø/Glimt. 

I like the business Vålerenga have done in the window, they needed a goalscorer and it looks like they have him. They were also short of a quality midfielder, so that should be fixed too. 

I fancy them to beat Brann, like they did in Bergen on the 1st of August, 1-2. I think it will be a close game, but Vålerenga have that bit of extra quality. 

Vålerenga have scored in every home game this season and at least 2 in all but 1 of them, and Brann have scored in 6 of 8 away games, so I fancy both teams to get a goal But a 2-1 or 3-1 for the home side looks the most likely to me.

Away from home, Brann have had a tendency to defend their box, and concede plenty corners, so I will probably be looking at Vålerenga corners too.

Bet Builder: Vålerenga 2+ goals, Vålerenga to win either half (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Finne (2.40), Kjartansson (2.10) or Taylor (3.75)

Bets for Eliteserien this Weekend

Glimt to score in both Halves 1.90 NAP

Aalesund to win (draw no Bet) 2.10

Vålerenga to win/draw double chance and BTTS v Brann 1.95

Amahl Pellegrino to score against Viking (2.00)

A tactical look at Viking FK

As a Scot living in Norway, I was very excited to see Viking been drawn against Aberdeen in the Europa League Qualifiers this week. 

I have watched a lot of football in Norway this year, including plenty of Viking games, and I think it will be a really tough game for Aberdeen in Stavanger.

It's a tough draw for Viking too though, and it will likely be an even game. But I thought since there are no games this week in Eliteserien, I would take a look at tactically how Viking line up, what they try and do offensively and how they work as a defensive unit.

In short, what should Aberdeen be prepared for, and where can they get at them.

Viking Lineup

This is the way Viking have lined up in the last two games. Joe Bell played holding midfield for most of the games this season, but he has lost his place the last two weeks, maybe just to freshen things up in midfield.

Torsteinbø who played the majority of games at right back has moved in to midfield, and now Løkberg who played right of the centre 3, is in the middle.

The main reason for all of these shifts is due to the return of Yann Erik de Lanlay on the right of the front three. That has meant that Ibrahimaj has dropped into the midfield 3, and probably leaves the right hand side of the pitch a little more exposed defensively. 

Putting Vevatne at right back means he is not really going forward, basically leaving a back 3 when attacking.

This inevitably creates a slight imbalance in the attacking shape of the side, and means Viking attack down the left hand side far more than the right.

There are two or three possible changes to this team for when Aberdeen visit. 

1. Central defender Runar Hove is usually a regular but has missed the last two and a half months with an injury. He could come back over the international break, and would likely replace Axel Andresson. 

2. Joe Bell could go back in to the holding midfield role. It makes a big difference when he plays to the style. All the recycled play goes through him, as he looks to start attacks by getting the ball in to wide areas. He is always wanting to get on the ball, something Løkberg doesn't do so much of.

3. It is possible they might rotate a little, with guys like Even Østensen and Tommy Høiland both needing games in attack, but they would weaken the side a little. 

Style of Play - Offense

Left Hand Side Attacks

No doubt Viking do most of their good work on the front foot, they have scored 24 goals and conceded 30 in the 16 league games so far this season. A lot of that is to do with Zymer Bytyqi, Veton Berisha and Ylldren Ibrahimaj. 

De Lanlay coming back from injury means Ibrahimaj is a little deeper, and in recent weeks most of the attacking has been done down the left hands side. 

Often how it works is Zymer Bytyqi drops in to a wide area, right on the touchline where is is found by one of the midfielder.

At this point left back Adrian Pereira is free to attack, and does very little of the conventional overlapping, instead often underlaps Bytyqi due to his position on the touchline. Pereira has just turned 21, has so much energy to get up in attack and does it the full game, often finding himself in crossing areas from quite far in, even in the box in shooting positions. 

The pair combine very well, Bytyqi cuts in on his right, and Pereira with his runs beyond often drags defenders away. It gives Byyqi the crossing option, or if the defenders don't follow the run, the passing option to Pereira.

Another thing that happens quite a lot in this situation is Berisha or Ibrahimaj gets involved in a triangle, and Bytyqi will look for the pass and Pereira becomes a third man running in behind.

Bytyqi has the pace to get down the outside, so leave him one on one, and he can go both ways, can cross with both feet, and is very hard to defend against. For me he is the best player at Viking and one that needs to be handled very carefully. He can also cut in and shoot, something he looks to do around the area, he has scored goals from this this season.

Bytyqi has 5 assists, Pereira 3, so a third of the goals are assisted directly from their play. Pereira also has two goals, Bytyqi 5, showing how important these two are to the team.

As buildup is happening they flood the box, Torsteinbø, De Lanlay and Ibrahimaj join Berisha in the box, and Løkberg as well is never far away. They certainly commit numbers in attack which can leave them a little vulnerable to the counter.

Right Hand Side Attacks

The right hand side is very different, with Vevatne at right back not getting forward nearly as much as Pereira. He does back up De Lanlay on that side, but the main attacking combination comes from De Lanlay and Ibrahimaj together, with Vevatne sometimes crossing from deeper.

Often the right hand side isn't creating much, instead they recycle the ball quickly as they can over to the left hand side to create space for that side, it is a very lopsided attack, not much goes down that right. 

However, brahimaj has a great left foot, and if you give him space in advanced areas he will pick out through balls or cross to Berisha or Torsteinbø creeping round the back. He likes to bounce passes off of Berisha too, who is a strong link player.

Also De Lanlay is just coming back from injury and will be getting fitter every week. He can go both ways as well, and when Ibrahimaj goes round him on an overlap it can leave space for either of them. 

Other things of note

Viking do look to play out from the back, particularly through the full backs, but if they are pressed high they won't try anything silly. Torsteinbø becomes a target for long balls high on the left hand side, he wins his fair share of flick ons for Berisha and Bytyqi to work off of.

Berisha has really found his form in August, scoring 6 goals and looking far better than at any stage in 2019 with Brann. He is short but really strong and stocky player, but also is willing to break in behind when the option is there.

He is at his best when backing in to defenders and laying passes off one or two touch, then getting in to the box. He is a decent finisher, and knows how to find space for himself in the box. 

Viking transition pretty quickly to attack when they win it back, often it is fired in to Berisha who can lay it off and the back up players look for Bytyqi in behind. If the line is high, Berisha will go in behind as well and look to stretch play.

Defense

This is how they set up defensively when they are not pressing high:

Defense has been the big issue for Viking this year, and they do lose a lot of goals, particularly in transition. They also press really high and aggressively, which can leave them vulnerable to direct balls.

The defense don't quite get up high enough, so dropping balls in to strikers is fairly easy, and you can set up attacks from there.

Adrian Pereira who we talked about in an attacking sense, presses very aggressively on the wide man, leaving huge spaces in behind him. It either leaves the central defender heavily exposed, or gives Løkberg or Torsteinbø a really tough task of covering for him.

Pereira doesn't particularly cover in far enough either in general play, I think it is a real weakness defensively the left hand side. He is great going forward, but needs to work on his defensive work having just turned 21.

In transition Viking try and press high and quickly. This is where they are at their most vulnerable because they lose a little bit of shape. Especially when Løkberg plays and not Joe Bell. Bell is far less likely to go pressing a harrying up the pitch, but Løkberg is naturally good at it, and can't help himself. 

Sometimes this leaves big gaps between midfield and defense that can be exploited. Nodody is particularly lazy in the side, but Ibrahimaj, Berisha, Bytyqi and de Lanlay don't quite have the intensity of Torsteinbø and Løkberg when pressing, so you can play round them, and if you have a striker to hold up play you can get the ball into him and quickly transition in to attack against them.

I also think they are a little bit vulnerable from set pieces and cross balls. They play a zone marking system on corners, but they don't have a lot of height in the side which is an issue, and goalkeeper Østbø doesn't really command his box. He is a decent shot stopper, but not commanding.

Heggheim is only 19, and Andresson is 22, they lack experience, and Heggheim definitely lacks a little bit of aggression for me.

Conclusion

Viking can be hurt with quick transitions, in particular in behind left back Pereira.

Also plenty cross balls, they lack height and aggression in defending the box, so that can be exploited.

The left hand side of the attack is where the magic happens. Bytyqi, and Pereira are a great partnership, and both are capable of telling crosses.

They cross the ball and flood the box when given an opportunity. Be prepared to defend crossed balls.

In defensive transition, be aware Berisha is often the first target in to his feet for them to quickly move upfield. Bytyqi likes to go in behind on transition quickly too.

Nearly all long balls from the keeper are aimed at Torsteinbø in the left wing area, be prepared to defend that.

Ibrahimaj has a great left foot, don't leave him room on his left hand side to pick out passes and crosses, he can do it all day.

Viking work very hard, that has to be matched, because if they have a lot of possession they will create chances.

There is no doubt in my mind Aberdeen can come to Stavanger and win, but Viking have plenty tools to hurt them, this will not be an easy game. 

Viking currently sit 10th, but they are far better than that, and if they are underestimated at all by Aberdeen, they will not beat them.