Vålerenga Edges Stromsgodset in Thrilling 4-3 Friendly
Vålerenga Fotball secured a dramatic 4-3 victory over Stromsgodset in a high-scoring club friendly at Intility Arena on Saturday. Goals from Ivan Näsberg, Magnus Westergaard, M. Grundetjern, and Gabriel Larsen Rajkovic powered the hosts to a hard-fought win. The match showcased attacking flair ahead of the new season, delighting fans in Oslo.
Vålerenga dominates Stromsgodset in pre-season friendly
Intility Arena pulsed with energy as Vålerenga Fotball hosted Stromsgodset in a pre-season friendly that delivered non-stop action.
The game kicked off at 11:00 AM under chilly 4°C conditions on the artificial turf, drawing a lively crowd eager to see their team shake off winter rust.
Vålerenga, riding a strong recent form with wins over Tromso and Sandefjord, started brightly but found themselves level at halftime after Stromsgodset's Fredrik Pau Vilaseca Ardraa struck in the 18th minute, matched by Ivan Näsberg's equalizer just before the break at the 44th.
Second-half surge secures 4-3 victory
The second half exploded into life as Vålerenga surged ahead.
Magnus Westergaard netted early in the 47th minute, followed by M. Grundetjern's strike eight minutes later to make it 3-1.
Stromsgodset fought back valiantly, with Sebastian Pingel pulling one back in the 60th and J. Ampofo adding tension in the 81st to narrow the gap to 4-3 after Gabriel Larsen Rajkovic's 68th-minute goal. The hosts held firm through a frantic finish, with the Intility Arena crowd roaring their approval as the final whistle blew.
Implications for upcoming Eliteserien campaign
This result boosts Vålerenga's confidence, especially after a narrow 0-1 loss to Rosenborg earlier in their friendly slate.
For Stromsgodset, enduring a tough run with losses to KFUM, Odd, and Rosenborg, the match highlighted defensive frailties but also glimpses of attacking promise.
Vålerenga's dominance in possession and clinical finishing underscored their promotion push ambitions in the upcoming Eliteserien campaign.
Fans at the 16,556-capacity stadium witnessed a spectacle that bodes well for packed houses ahead, with next home games against Sandefjord on March 15 and Viking soon after.
Manager's post-match comments praised the intensity, noting how such battles at Intility Arena prepare the squad for the rigors of league football.
The venue's atmosphere, amplified by vocal support, played a key role in the comeback spirit. As Oslo's football heartbeat, Intility Arena continues to host events that unite the community, from matches to fan zones buzzing post-game.
