Sandefjord vs HamKam Predictions

Sandefjord vs HamKam predictions for their meeting in the Norwegian Elitserien. Sandefjord and HamKam, separated by one point, clash Thursday in Eliteserien aiming to avoid relegation. Read on for our free match preview and betting tips.

Norwegian Eliteserien | Jun 27, 2024 at 6pm UK at Komplett Arena

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Sandefjord vs HamKam Predictions

Can Sandefjord or HamKam Secure Vital Points to Avoid the Drop?

As Sandefjord prepare to host HamKam in the Eliteserien, both teams are desperate for points to steer clear of the relegation zone. Despite being at the bottom of the table and 13th place respectively, there is only a single point separating these two clubs. This upcoming clash could be pivotal in determining their fate this season.

Sandefjord’s Struggles and Brief Resurgence

Sandefjord narrowly avoided relegation last season and hoped to make significant improvements. Unfortunately, their scepticism has been justified. With only two wins from their first eleven matches this season, the team has struggled to find form. Their victories, a 3-1 win over Molde and a 4-1 triumph against Sarpsborg, briefly raised hopes, but they have since failed to win in five games, conceding 11 goals during this stretch.

In their recent outing against KFUM Oslo, Sandefjord managed to secure a 3-3 draw despite being reduced to ten men. This performance showed resilience but also highlighted their defensive frailties, conceding a late equaliser in the 89th minute.

HamKam’s Recent Form and Defensive Concerns

HamKam, on the other hand, have experienced a mixed season with two wins, including a resounding 7-1 victory over Sarpsborg 08. However, they have also suffered back-to-back defeats, with their latest loss being a narrow 2-1 to Brann. Jakob Michelsen’s objective is clear: to keep HamKam in the top flight. Despite only losing twice in their last seven games, these are the matches they must win to avoid the drop.

Team News and Tactical Insights

For Sandefjord, Martin Gjone is expected to step into the defence to replace the suspended Stian Kristiansen. Sander Risan Mork, having scored as a substitute in the last game, is also in contention for a start. The likely lineup includes Keto; Pedersen, Berglie, Kristiansen, Cheng; Amin, Ottosson, Mettler; Markovic, Tveter, and Al-Saed.

HamKam have their own selection issues, with Fredrik Sjolstad potentially returning from injury. Players such as Brynjar Ingi Bjarnason, Arne Odegard, and Pal Alexander Kirkevold, who made significant impacts as substitutes against Brann, are likely to be considered for starting roles. The probable starting XI for HamKam is Sandberg; Mares, Norheim, Bjarnason; Jonsson, N.Odegard, Simenstad, A.Odegard, Kongsro; Kirkevold, and Udahl.

Expected Gameplay and Tactical Battle

Given the lineups, Sandefjord are expected to play with a balanced approach, focusing on possession and building up play through midfielders like Ottosson and Amin. Their defence has been a weak point, but the inclusion of Gjone aims to shore up the backline. Offensively, the forward trio of Markovic, Tveter, and Al-Saed are crucial, with Markovic being particularly influential.

HamKam are likely to adopt a more defensive setup, aiming to counter-attack through players like Jonsson and Kirkevold. Their defensive setup will be tested, especially considering their recent tendency to concede goals. However, their ability to score, demonstrated by players like Simenstad and Norheim, remains a threat.

Key Areas and Player Duels

One of the decisive areas on the field will be the midfield battle. Sandefjord’s Ottosson and Amin against HamKam’s Simenstad and Kongsro will be a crucial duel. Control of the midfield will determine which team can impose their gameplay. Additionally, the defensive matchups, particularly Gjone against Kirkevold, will be pivotal in preventing goals.

Criticism of Sandefjord’s Strategy and Management

Sandefjord’s approach this season has been fraught with defensive errors and lack of tactical flexibility. Their manager, Erik Odegaard, and Tegstrom have failed to solidify a defensive strategy, resulting in frequent goals conceded. This lack of defensive solidity has undermined their attacking efforts, leading to their precarious position in the table. The management’s inability to address these issues is a glaring failure, as consistent defensive lapses continue to cost them crucial points.

Expected Goals Averages Analysis

Sandefjord’s average goals scored per game stands at 1.4, while they concede 1.7 goals per game. This suggests a relatively balanced attacking output but highlights significant defensive vulnerabilities. On the other hand, HamKam score an average of 1.2 goals per game and concede 1.3. Both teams have shown a tendency to score, but their defensive weaknesses are apparent.

Strengths and Weaknesses of Both Teams

Sandefjord’s Strengths and Weaknesses: Sandefjord’s attacking prowess is notable, with players like Markovic and Tveter contributing significantly. However, their defence remains a significant weakness, as highlighted by their failure to keep a single clean sheet this season. Their midfield control, led by Ottosson, can dictate the pace of the game but is often let down by the backline.

HamKam’s Strengths and Weaknesses: HamKam’s defence, though slightly better statistically, has also struggled, particularly in away games. Their strength lies in their resilience and ability to score through set-pieces, with defenders like Simenstad posing a threat. However, their overall possession play is weak, often ceding control to opponents.

Managerial Analysis

Jakob Michelsen of HamKam has shown a pragmatic approach, focusing on defensive organisation and counter-attacks. This strategy has brought mixed results but has kept them in contention to avoid relegation. In contrast, Sandefjord’s managerial duo, Odegaard and Tegstrom, have failed to instil a coherent defensive strategy, resulting in frequent collapses and loss of points. Their tactical inflexibility and inability to adapt have been detrimental to the team’s performance.

Predictions

Best Bet: Both Teams to Score

Given both teams’ defensive struggles and consistent scoring records, the best bet is that both teams will find the net. Sandefjord have scored in six of their last seven games, while HamKam have seen both teams score in seven of their last nine matches. This trend suggests that despite their defensive frailties, both teams are capable of scoring.

Correct Score Prediction: Sandefjord 2-2 HamKam

A 2-2 draw appears a likely outcome. Both teams have shown a propensity to score but also to concede, making a high-scoring draw plausible. Sandefjord’s average goals per game and HamKam’s similar attacking output point towards a match with multiple goals.

Goalscorer Prediction: Eman Markovic to Score

Eman Markovic, with his record of three goals this season, is likely to find the net. His attacking prowess and positioning make him a key threat against HamKam’s defence. Markovic’s ability to score crucial goals in important matches strengthens this prediction.

Corner Prediction: HamKam to Have More Corners

HamKam, averaging 5.2 corners per game compared to Sandefjord’s 4.7, are likely to win more corners. Their reliance on set-pieces and crossing into the box to create scoring opportunities will contribute to this higher corner count.

Innovative Market Prediction: Over 2.5 Goals in the Match

With both teams’ defensive vulnerabilities and their ability to score, predicting over 2.5 goals in the match is a strong market angle. The attacking intent and frequent defensive lapses suggest that this game will see multiple goals, aligning with their season averages.

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