Scoutmania

In the beginning of October 2024, IFK Norrköping hosted IFK Göteborg in the Platinumcars Arena. The match ended with a win for the away team (0-2).

IFK Norrköping, led by Andreas Alm, played in a variation of 4-4-2 with a lot of fluidity, and players often showing up in different positions. At times, the shape appeared to be a 4-3-3. The team’s defense struggled against Göteborg’s physical, offensive players. Most of the attacks came either by the right footed left-back Moutaz Neffati‘s forward runs or by the dynamic midfielder Kristoffer Khazeni and his good deep runs sprinkled with a good touch.

IFK Göteborg, led by Stefan Billborn, played in 4-3-3 with most of the offensive play centered around their physically imposing striker Laurs Skjellerup, who had very much success against Norrköping’s central defence, and this proved to be a winning formula. The team’s defensive side was very well drilled and the defensive minded midfielders in coordination were able to create space for each other as well as for the progressed play.

Best potential players:

Adam Carlén (IFK Göteborg), defensive midfielder born 2000.

Adam is a defensive midfielder with a very big frame and great physique. He had the ability to create space with his movements, and in possession, he had a decent understanding and control of the game’s tempo. Was able to show improvements in his forward ball progression, to take him to a higher level. His combination of “Game IQ” and physique made me believe that he can be an interesting profile for higher level.

August Erlingmark (IFK Göteborg), centre-back born 1998.

August is a central defender with athletic build and good physique. Was effective at making interceptions as well as in reading the play properly; turned to be very strong and tenacious in defending duels. Demonstrated good aerial play and headers.

Laurs Skjellerup (IFK Göteborg), striker born 2002.

Laurs, who has since been sold to Italian Serie B side Sassuolo, took part in lot of very good duels with his back to goal, and was able to practice his dominance on the opposition central defenders (they were forced to commit fouls on him). He was tenacious and physically dominant; had heavy ball striking in his finishing. The areas in terms of the improvement should be his technique and acceleration.

Moutaz Neffati (IFK Norrköping), left-back born 2004.

Moutaz is a right footed LB, who was one of the main outlets for his team. Very offensive minded player, but covered well both phases (attacking – defending). Did not get tested too much defensively in this match though. Quite strong going forward, has decent technique and great ball striking both with regards to passes, crosses and finishes.

To FOLLOW also IFK Norrköping midfielder Jesper Ceesay (2001) and right winger Carl Björk (2000); and IFK Göteborg goalkeeper Jacob Karlstrøm (1997) and midfielder David Kruse (2002).

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