Stromsgodset vs Viking FK Predictions

• Stromsgodset are unbeaten in their last five games, drawing with Viking and fellow heavy-hitters Bodo/Glimt during that run.
• Viking are without a defeat in their last seven, but have drawn three of their last four.
• Viking have only won one of their last three games on the road.
• The two teams drew 0-0 just two weeks ago.

In-form sides meet in crucial early-season clash

One of the highlights of this weekend’s Norwegian Eliteserien action sees Stromsgodset, unbeaten in five league games, take on Viking, who are without defeat in their last seven, as the hosts try to narrow a seven-point gap to their title-challenging visitors having played a game fewer. Viking, however, may be feeling the pressure after a series of frustrating stalemates.

Indeed, 2021’s third-placed side have now drawn three of their last four matches despite having more than 65 per cent of the possession in three of those. That run began with a 0-0 home draw with Stromsgodset in early May, which quelled Viking’s momentum after they had scored nine goals in back-to-back games against Haugesund and Molde. Since beating the latter 4-3, Viking have scored just five goals – three of them in one game against struggling Jerv.

The hosts, meanwhile, have gone from strength to strength since that draw, beating Kristiansund and Valerenga in back-to-back contests before registering an entertaining 2-2 draw with Europa Conference League quarter-finalists Bodo/Glimt on Wednesday. Despite averaging just 45 per cent possession this term, the hosts have been involved in some thrilling basketball-style games; 26 goals have been scored in league games featuring them this term, the second-highest such tally in the division.

Hosts can further disrupt Viking’s hopes

Considering the series of frustrating stalemates Viking have been involved in of late, as well as the fact Stromsgodset avoided defeat against the same opponents just a fortnight ago and have won each of their last two at home, backing the hosts on the double chance market could be a strong play.

Meanwhile, with Stromsgodset’s last three games featuring a total of 12 goals, this fixture should provide more entertainment than the reverse, with a 2-2 draw a decent correct score prediction.

* To use the Live Streaming service you will need to be logged in and have a funded account or to have placed a bet in the last 24 hours