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Haugesund hosted Odd in a pivotal Eliteserien clash, with the stakes high for the home side, as they fought to avoid the relegation playoff. While Odd’s fate was already sealed, they still brought their dynamic attacking style to the contest. Haugesund’s disciplined organisation and determination proved decisive, as they secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory, showcasing defensive resilience and capitalising on key moments to keep their survival hopes alive.

Haugesund, managed by Sancheev Manoharan, lined up in a disciplined 4-3-3 formation, focusing on bypassing Odd’s high press with direct long balls and quick switches of play. Their approach aimed to find the spare man when pressed during build-up or launch counter-attacks to exploit space when the opposition was high up the pitch and drive forward. Additionally, switches of play were occasionally used further up the pitch in an attempt to progress into the final third. Out of possession, Haugesund remained compact and organised, often transitioning into a 4-4-1-1 shape. This limited Odd’s ability to break through central positions of the pitch, and forcing them to play out wide. As a result, Haugesund denied clear chances for Odd, while creating dangerous opportunities on the break, including a counter-attack that led to the second goal, leveling the scoreline and ultimately contributing to their 2-1 victory.

Odd, led by Knut Rønningene, set up in a 4-3-3 formation, focused on high pressing and controlling the midfield. Out of possession, their compact 4-3-3 shape created central overloads, forcing the opposition to play wide or resort to long, direct passes. This approach enabled Odd to regain possession in advanced areas, sparking several promising counter-attacks. Their press was well-coordinated, with the forwards and midfielders working together to disrupt the opposition’s build-up play. Despite these efforts, Odd struggled to convert their chances, ultimately losing 2-1 to Haugesund.

While Haugesund focused on switching play and exploiting space on the counter, Odd pressed high and controlled the central areas, but struggled to capitalise on their chances.

Best potential players?

Troy Nyhammer (Haugesund), midfielder born 2006.
Nyhammer made an instant impact after coming on as a substitute, helping Haugesund take control of the game. His intelligent movement and positive mindset allowed him to find space and create opportunities in the final third. He was pivotal in Haugesund’s equalizer, driving forward on a counterattack and threading a perfectly timed through ball for an assist. Nyhammer’s progressive play and ability to turn defense into attack were crucial in changing the game’s momentum.

Elias Sauer (Haugesund), attacking midfielder born 2004.
Sauer was one of Haugesund’s standout creative forces, driving forward with intent and consistently looking to create opportunities. Operating as an inside forward, he excelled when cutting inside or free-roaming into central areas, where he was most dangerous. Sauer’s ability was evident early, initiating Haugesund’s first major chance, and his work rate paid off when he won a penalty after switching flanks in an attack he helped spark. This penalty, converted by his teammate, secured Haugesund’s 2-1 victory. Sauer’s vision to influence the game and create from various positions makes him a key player to watch.

Oliver Hagen (Odd), forward born 2006.
Hagen shone in counterattacking situations, using his pace and ball control to drive forward effectively. His precision on set pieces was key, delivering a cross that resulted in the game’s opening goal. Despite the loss, Hagen’s composure and creativity in transition highlighted his potential as an attacking threat.

To FOLLOW Also:

Einer Fauskanger (Haugesund), goalkeeper born 2008.
At just 16 years old, Fauskanger continues to rise through the ranks, having recently made his debut for Haugesund. He showed incredible composure under pressure, producing two critical reflex saves in the dying minutes of the match. One save from an 86th-minute corner and another from a long-range strike in the 89th minute preserved Haugesund’s victory. His maturity and shot-stopping ability make him one to watch.

Anders Bondhus (Haugesund), defender born 2005.
Bondhus demonstrated defensive solidity and maturity beyond his years, playing a crucial role in Haugesund’s backline. His ability to read the game and execute timely challenges helped neutralize Odd’s counterattacks. Bondhus’ potential to grow as a versatile defender is evident, marking him as a player with a bright future.

Leon Hien (Odd), defender born 2001.
Hien was a bright spot in Odd’s defense, showcasing his ability to win challenges and maintain composure under pressure. Early in the game, he delivered a dangerous cross that led to a goal-line clearance, underlining his offensive contribution as well. His defensive reliability and attacking involvement make him a promising player for Odd’s future.

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