Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the matches of the 10th round of the Norwegian Championship will take place on Sunday at the Intility Arena, where local side Viking will host Fredrikstad. Here’s my pick for the outcome of this clash, featuring an attractive odds boost.
Match preview
The "Dark Blues" have been unstoppable this season, confidently leading the Norwegian league table. Their victory over Molde in the previous round marked their fifth consecutive win, extending their unbeaten league run to 11 games. On home turf, Viking have been just as dominant, with four wins in six matches underscoring their fortress status.
The team’s attacking approach deserves special mention: from the opening whistle, the "Dark Blues" relentlessly press their opponents, forcing mistakes. This aggressive offense, paired with disciplined defending, makes Viking the favorite not only in this fixture, but in the championship race as a whole. Given Fredrikstad’s inconsistency, the hosts are well-positioned to continue their winning streak.
The "Aristocrats" remain in the upper part of the table, but their recent results raise questions about their stability. A draw with Sarpsborg and two previous league defeats have pushed Fredrikstad back in the battle for the top four. Their away form is particularly worrying: in four road games, they have managed only one victory.
Defensively, the visitors have been prone to errors under pressure, which could prove fatal against such a formidable opponent as Viking. Unless Hansen’s side makes immediate adjustments, their trip to Stavanger could end in yet another disappointment and lost points. Given the disparity in current form, Fredrikstad have little chance of salvaging a result.
Probable lineups
- Viking: Kristos Klassen, Henrik Heggheim, Andreas Bærtelsen, Henrik Falchener, Vetle Vevatne, Johan Hansen, Joe Bell, Sondre Svendsen, Zlatko Tripic, Patrik Kristiansen, Andre Austbø
- Fredrikstad: Jonas Fischer, Manuel Woledzi, Olav Fredriksen, Fredrik Fall, Daniel Eid, Roman Shein, Lawrence Owusu, Sander Molde, Oscar Ohlenschlaeger, Erik Holten, Henrik Skogvold
Match facts and head-to-head
- Viking have won their last seven matches in all competitions.
- In the league, Viking have claimed nine victories in their last eleven games.
- Fredrikstad have lost three of their last four matches across all competitions.
Prediction
Given Viking’s phenomenal form and Fredrikstad’s issues all over the pitch, it’s hard to imagine an upset here. The hosts should exploit their opponent’s weaknesses and extend their winning run, maintaining a comfortable lead at the top of the table. My prediction: a straightforward Viking victory.
