Sarpsborg 08 — Viking : Match Preview and Prediction for September 27,2025

Sarpsborg 08’s Recent Form and Cup Progression

It’s been a challenging and action-packed week for the ‘White and Blues.’ They saw their two-game winning streak in the league come to an end last weekend with a 1-2 away loss to Strømsgodset. Midweek, Sander Nyland’s squad engaged in a high-scoring cup battle away against Kjelsås (a 6-5 victory after a penalty shootout), ultimately progressing to the Round of 16.

Defensive Concerns and Key Absences

Undoubtedly, the 08ers’ defense remains their Achilles’ heel, having conceded goals in 10 consecutive matches across all competitions. However, under the new coach, their results and league standing in the Eliteserien have shown improvement. Currently, they sit in 10th place, having recently extended their lead over the relegation playoff zone to seven points. For this crucial match against one of the league leaders, Sarpsborg will be without Carstensen, the Danish forward who has been injured for a long time, and experienced main striker Berget, who suffered an injury against Strømsgodset last week.

Viking’s Title Challenge and Recent League Performance

The Stavanger-based side is currently locked in a fierce battle with Bodø/Glimt for the Norwegian championship title, aiming to dethrone the ‘Bumblebees’ who have topped the Eliteserien for two consecutive seasons. A complete parity in points was re-established when Jensen’s charges secured a late 1-0 home victory against Molde in the second half, while Bodø/Glimt dropped points away at Rosenborg in Trondheim.

Strong Cup Run and Full Squad Availability

Midweek, one of the league leaders advanced to the next round of the cup with more assurance than Sarpsborg, comfortably defeating Eik-Tønsberg 2-0 away. It’s been a productive week for Viking, and they aim to continue this positive momentum by securing an away win against the 08ers. A significant advantage for the visitors is their full squad, with no injury concerns for this match.