Rosenborg vs Lillestrom predictions for this pre season clash. Rosenborg, after a 1-0 win over Manchester United, host Lillestrom in the Eliteserien on Sunday. Read on for our free match preview and betting tips.
Norwegian Eliteserien | Jul 21, 2024 at 6.15pm UK at Lerkendal Stadion
Rosenborg vs Lillestrom Predictions
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Can Lillestrom Capitalise on Rosenborg’s Defensive Struggles?
Key Stats
– Rosenborg have conceded an average of 1.9 goals per game this season, highlighting their defensive frailties.
– Lillestrom’s Thomas Lehne Olsen has scored six goals in 14 matches, making him a key attacking threat.
– Rosenborg have only kept two clean sheets in 14 matches, indicating their struggles in defence.
After a noteworthy victory over Manchester United, Rosenborg return to their Eliteserien campaign, hosting Lillestrom at the Lerkendal Stadion. Both teams have contrasting forms and aspirations, making this clash a significant one as the season progresses.
Team Analysis
Rosenborg
Rosenborg’s recent triumph over Manchester United in a mid-season friendly was a morale booster. Noah Jean Holm’s stoppage-time winner capped off a solid performance, albeit against a Red Devils side lacking fitness and match sharpness. However, the real test lies in the league, where Rosenborg have struggled considerably.
Currently positioned 11th in the Eliteserien, Rosenborg have managed just 17 points from 14 matches, reflecting a challenging campaign. They have only secured two wins in their last 10 league matches, indicating a form slump. This downturn contrasts sharply with their early season form, where they secured four wins from six.
Rosenborg’s possible starting lineup might include Tangvik in goal, supported by defenders Cornic, Ceide, Jenssen, and Reitan. The midfield trio could feature Vaananen, Selnaes, and Nypan, while Broholm, Reitan-Sunde, and Saeter form the attack. Saeter, with seven goals this season, will be crucial in breaking down Lillestrom’s defence.
Lillestrom
Lillestrom, in contrast, come into this match on the back of a 3-1 victory over Stromsgodset. Their form has been inconsistent but generally positive, having won three of their last four matches. They sit seventh in the table, level on points with Stromsgodset, but will need to address their away form to climb higher.
The team has a decent attacking record with 18 goals in 14 games, while their defence has conceded 24 goals, indicating a balance that swings slightly towards the offensive. Key players include Thomas Lehne Olsen, who has been prolific with six goals this season, and Marius Lundemo, whose midfield presence has been significant.
Lillestrom’s likely starting XI could see Christiansen in goal, with a defence comprising Charles, Garnaas, Gabrielsen, and Toennessen. The midfield might include Ibrahimaj, Lundemo, and Aasen, while the attacking trio could be Kitolano, Olsen, and Va. This lineup blends experience and youth, aiming to exploit Rosenborg’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Expected Goals Analysis
Rosenborg have averaged 1.4 goals per game, a modest tally reflecting their inconsistent attack. Their defensive record is concerning, with 27 goals conceded, averaging nearly two goals per game. This defensive frailty has been a significant factor in their poor league form.
Lillestrom, averaging 1.3 goals per game, have shown they can score but also concede frequently. Their defensive record, conceding 1.7 goals per game, suggests that they are vulnerable at the back. However, their ability to find the net, especially through key players like Olsen, will be crucial.
Key Duels and Field Areas
The midfield battle will be critical. Rosenborg’s Ole Selnaes and Sverre Halseth Nypan will need to control the tempo and disrupt Lillestrom’s midfield operations. Selnaes’ defensive capabilities and Nypan’s creativity will be pivotal in this regard.
In attack, the duel between Rosenborg’s Saeter and Lillestrom’s Garnaas will be a focal point. Saeter’s goal-scoring form makes him a threat, while Garnaas will need to marshal the defence effectively to keep him in check. On the wings, Broholm’s ability to exploit space and create chances will test Lillestrom’s full-backs.
Gameplay Predictions
Rosenborg are expected to dominate possession, utilising their midfield strength to control the game. They will look to create chances through wide play and quick transitions. Lillestrom, meanwhile, might adopt a more counter-attacking approach, exploiting Rosenborg’s defensive lapses with quick, direct plays aimed at Olsen.
Improvement Suggestions
Rosenborg
Rosenborg need to tighten their defence, particularly in transition phases where they have been vulnerable. Improving their defensive organisation and communication will be crucial. Offensively, they should focus on converting their possession into clear-cut chances and improving their finishing efficiency.
Lillestrom
Lillestrom should work on their defensive solidity, minimising errors that lead to goals. Enhancing their coordination in defence and midfield will be key. Offensively, they need to be more clinical in front of goal, capitalising on the chances they create through quick transitions.
Managerial Strengths and Weaknesses
Alfred Johansson
Johansson’s tactical approach has brought mixed results for Rosenborg. His ability to motivate the team and implement a structured game plan has been evident in their better performances. However, his inability to address defensive weaknesses and adapt tactically in games has been a significant drawback.
Andreas Georgson
Georgson has instilled a resilient and dynamic approach in Lillestrom. His emphasis on quick transitions and exploiting spaces has been effective. However, his teams have occasionally struggled with defensive consistency and maintaining intensity throughout matches, which can be detrimental against stronger opponents.
Controversial Critique of Rosenborg
Rosenborg, despite their historic status, have been underwhelming this season. Johansson’s tactics appear outdated and lack the adaptability required in modern football. His failure to instill defensive discipline has left the team exposed, leading to their precarious league position. Without a significant tactical overhaul, Rosenborg risk a further decline, which could have long-term repercussions for the club.
Predictions
Best Bet: Lillestrom to Win
Given Rosenborg’s defensive struggles and Lillestrom’s recent form, betting on an away win is prudent. Lillestrom have shown they can exploit defensive lapses, and with Rosenborg’s vulnerabilities, they are likely to secure a victory.
Correct Score Prediction: Rosenborg 1-2 Lillestrom
A 2-1 victory for Lillestrom aligns with the best bet. Rosenborg’s ability to score but also concede frequently suggests a high-scoring affair, with Lillestrom likely to edge it.
Goalscorer Prediction: Thomas Lehne Olsen
Olsen’s goal-scoring form makes him a prime candidate to find the net. His ability to exploit defensive weaknesses and convert chances will be crucial against Rosenborg’s porous defence.
First Half Result: Lillestrom Leading
Lillestrom’s tendency to start strong and exploit early opportunities suggests they might lead at half-time. Rosenborg’s defensive frailties, particularly early in matches, support this prediction.
Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target (Lillestrom Over 6.5)
Lillestrom’s attacking depth and Rosenborg’s defensive issues suggest the visitors will have numerous shots on target. Betting on Lillestrom to have over 6.5 shots on target is logical given their attacking prowess and Rosenborg’s defensive vulnerabilities.
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