Stromsgodset — Molde : Match Preview and Prediction for August 31,2025

Current Form and Dire Straits

Molde themselves appear uncharacteristically out of sorts in the current championship, having lost 8 of 19 league matches and accumulating just 27 points, placing them 8th in the table. Stromsgodset’s situation is even more dire. They’ve suffered 15 defeats in the league, with only 3 victories to their name. With a mere 10 points, the team languishes in last place. Bridging the 10-point gap to 14th-placed Bryne, who occupy a play-out spot, seems like an insurmountable challenge.

Struggles on the Pitch and Defensive Woes

How can a team hope to recover points when they simply aren’t performing? In their last outing, they could only manage a draw against Bryne, and prior to that, they meekly surrendered in 12 of their last 13 encounters. Defensively, ‘the manor’ is a sieve, having conceded 44 goals – only last-placed Haugesund has a worse record. Their attacking efforts are mediocre, with just 23 goals scored in 19 matches. Key players like Stengel, Valsvik, and Vekheim are failing to live up to expectations, struggling to find their own form and unable to inspire their teammates.

Key Absences and Disciplinary Issues

Adding to their woes, injuries have sidelined several crucial first-team players. Ekeland, Mahnert, Melkersen, and Wilsvik will all be unavailable for the upcoming match. Furthermore, Wikheim will miss the game due to a red card suspension.

Molde’s Resurgence and Defensive Solidity

Molde is making a concerted effort to compensate for lost ground. In their last five matches, they remain undefeated, securing four victories and keeping a clean sheet in four of those encounters. Molde has truly found their rhythm, demonstrating excellent balance across all departments. Their defense is exceptionally tight, denying opponents any close access to their penalty area.

Key Players and Tactical Flexibility

The team’s leaders, indeed the entire squad, are in superb form. Hestad, Eikrem, and Kaasa are effectively dominating the midfield, closing down all critical zones. Haugan, Breivik, and Linnes are performing admirably in their defensive roles. Upfront, Goldbrandes is a constant menace to opposing defenders, having scored 6 goals. Molde is tactically astute, capable of adapting to any opponent, with their 4-3-3 formation easily shifting to a 4-3-3-1 when required.

Minor Setbacks, Squad Depth

Due to an accumulation of yellow cards, Kabini and Lund will miss the match. Linnes and Eriksen are also sidelined with injuries. These absences are not critical, however, as Molde boasts a considerably deep squad.