Vålerenga Fotball vs Molde FK Prediction: The visitors are in-form

Valerenga Fotball's primary objective in their upcoming match against Molde will be to secure a positive result that keeps them clear of the relegation places in the Norwegian Eliteserien. A victory or even a draw would be significant in their bid to maintain their position outside the relegation zone. The visitors, on the other hand, have an opportunity to climb up the table and potentially secure a spot as high as third with an away victory. Previews, possible starting 11, expert tips, and odds are provided below.

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Valerenga's recent form in the league has been concerning, as they have gone winless in their last five matches, suffering four defeats. However, they managed to halt their losing streak with a goalless draw against Tromso and followed it up with a 3-2 victory over Brann in the Norwegian Cup.

The current season has been a challenging one for Valerenga so far, as they find themselves in 13th place with 11 points after 12 rounds, narrowly avoiding the relegation zone by just one point. The cup win against Brann could provide a confidence boost for the team as they look ahead to upcoming league matches.

Leonard Zuta, who has been playing as a central defender after starting the season as a left full-back, will be unavailable for the game due to a one-game suspension. Zuta is an important component of Valerenga's defensive line, and his absence may impact the team's defensive stability.

On a positive note, defensive midfielder Fredrik Jensen, who missed the previous match due to suspension, will be eligible to play in this game. Jensen's presence in midfield will provide valuable support to the team.

Additionally, Valerenga will have to cope without the services of backup central defender Aaron Olsen, who is sidelined with a leg injury.

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Molde enter the upcoming match against Valerenga with a positive run of form. They are currently unbeaten in their last three league matches, most recently securing a 2-0 home victory over Bronn. In the Norwegian Cup, they continued their winning streak with a 3-1 triumph against Sarpsborg, although they conceded a goal in the 72nd minute after taking a three-goal lead in the 35th minute.

Although the season has not started as well as they would have hoped, with Molde currently sitting in 5th place and trailing league leaders Bodo/Glimt by 12 points, they have been performing strongly in recent weeks. Their current run of form includes nine wins in their last 11 matches, indicating an improvement in their overall performance.

One key player to watch for Molde is Ola Brynhildsen, who served a suspension in their previous league match but is now available for the Valerenga game. The 24-year-old striker has been in exceptional form, notably scoring nine goals in his last seven matches. His impressive goal-scoring run adds a significant attacking threat to Molde's lineup and will be crucial in their quest for success.

As Molde aims to maintain their unbeaten streak and continue their winning momentum, they will look to capitalize on their recent form and utilize the scoring prowess of Ola Brynhildsen. Their improved performances in recent weeks indicate a team that is growing in confidence and will pose a formidable challenge to Valerenga.

Valerenga - Magnus Sjoeng, Vegar Hedenstad, Aleksander Hammer Kjelsen, Stefan Strandberg, Simen Juklerod, Petter Strand, Magnus Riisnaes, Henrik Björdal, Filip Thorvaldsen, Seedy Jatta, Mohamed Ofkir.

Molde - Jacob Karlstrøm, Eirik Haugan, Martin Bjørnbak, Anders Hagelskjaer, Martin Linnes, Sivert Mannsverk, Emil Breivik, Kristian Eriksen, Kristoffer Haugen, Ola Brynhildsen, Eric Kitolano.

Molde's resurgence in form over the past few weeks sets them up as the clear favorites in this encounter. With their recent run of positive results and Valerenga's struggles, it is likely that Molde will be highly motivated to secure a victory and close the gap on the league leaders.

Valerenga's recent form, which includes just one point from their last five league matches, suggests that they are facing a challenging season ahead. The contrast in form between the two teams further strengthens the belief that Molde will be the stronger side in this matchup.

Considering these factors, we anticipate Molde to display their determination and capitalize on Valerenga's current struggles. They will likely put in a strong performance and exert themselves to claim all three points in this encounter.

• W2 for 1.85 odds
• BTTS for 1.60 odds
• Over 2.5 for 1.60 odds