Molde FK vs SK Brann Prediction: Expect goal from both sides of the net

Sunday's Eliteserien clash between Molde and Brann will mark the conclusion of round 13 in the Norwegian top flight. A victory for Molde in this match would see them close the gap to SK Brann to just one point in the league table. Previews, possible starting 11, expert tips, and odds are provided below.

WWLWD

Molde will be aiming to continue their strong home form and secure their fifth consecutive victory at their home ground. Despite a slow start to their title defense, Molde have picked up momentum and showcased their potential as title contenders by winning six of their last nine matches in the Eliteserien.

The team was disappointed not to gain ground on league leaders Bodo/Glimt in their previous match, where they squandered a two-goal lead to settle for a draw. Nonetheless, Molde remain determined to make up ground in the standings and close the 12-point gap to the top.

However, Molde will have to navigate this match without goalkeeper Jacob Karlstrom, who is suspended due to a red card in their previous encounter. Oliver Petersen is expected to step in as the replacement. Additionally, the team will be without the services of Ulland Andersen and Martin Ellingsen, who are sidelined with injuries.

Despite these absences, Molde will still be seen as the favorites to win this encounter and will be eager to continue their winning streak at home.

WWDLW

Brann have had a solid campaign so far and have positioned themselves as early contenders for the title. They bounced back from a previous loss with a 2-1 victory over HamKam in their last league match, with goals from Jonas Torsvik and Bard Finne securing the win.

Currently sitting in third place with 24 points, Brann will be eager to add more points to their tally in this upcoming match. Despite gaining promotion as champions of the second tier last season, they have shown their ability to adapt to the top division, as seen when they finished as runners-up in 2016 after their immediate return to the Eliteserien.

However, Brann have experienced some difficulties on the road this season, suffering three defeats away from home. Brann will have to manage without defender Ruben Kristiansen and forward Selland Heggebo due to their absences. On the positive side, midfielder Sivert Heltne Nilsen will return to the squad after serving his one-game ban.

Brann will be determined to continue their positive form and compete for the title, but they will face a tough challenge against a motivated Molde side looking to extend their winning streak at home.

Molde - Oliver Petersen, Eirik Haugan, Martin Bjørnbak, Birk Risa, Martin Linnes, Sivert Mannsverk, Emil Breivik, Kristian Eriksen, Kristoffer Haugen, Ola Brynhildsen, Eric Kitolano.

Brann - Matias Dyngeland, Svenn Crone, Fredrik Knudsen, Japhet Sery Larsen, Jonas Tviberg Torsvik, Niklas Wassberg, Thore Pedersen, Felix Horn Myhre, Ole Didrik Blomberg, Bard Finne, Frederik Borsting.

Both sides are in great form now, and I expect the two sides to carry their form into this match by producing multiple goals. So I expect goals from both sides in a clash that could end in a draw. 

• BTTS for 1.60 odds
• X for 3.60 odds
• Over 2.5 for 1.60 odds