Valerenga vs Start - Match Preview (02.11.2024)

Valerenga faces Start in a critical 1st division match at Intility Arena

When Valerenga hosts Start at Intility Arena this week, it will be a clash between two teams with very different forms. Valerenga has impressed this season and has only lost three of their 28 matches, while scoring a remarkable 78 goals, averaging 2.8 goals per game. Their strong form has recently been confirmed with convincing victories, including a 4-0 triumph over Egersund at home.

In contrast, Start has had a much more challenging season. With only 9 wins from 28 matches, they find themselves in the lower part of the table. Despite a couple of bright spots recently, including a strong 4-0 victory against Sandnes ULF, it is clear that the team has struggled, particularly defensively, having conceded 52 goals so far. Their form over the last five matches illustrates inconsistency with two wins, one draw, and two losses.

Valerenga can also draw confidence from their good results in previous encounters against Start. In their last meeting in July 2024, Valerenga won 2-1 away. Historically, they have dominated this duel, with several large victories in previous seasons. In the 2018 match in Kristiansand, Valerenga smashed Start 6-1, showcasing their advantage in past encounters.

Considering Valerenga's explosive attacking play and Start's defensive vulnerabilities, we can expect a match where the home team will try to impose their style from the start. Key areas to watch will be Valerenga's ability to exploit Start's weak defense, especially in the first 15 minutes and just after halftime, periods where Start has been susceptible this season.

Both fans and neutral spectators at Intility Arena can prepare for an exciting match, where Valerenga hopes to strengthen their position at the top of the table, while Start fights to elevate themselves away from the bottom. The tactical battle between the teams will be crucial to the outcome, and both teams will be in search of the three vital points.