Get ready for an exciting match between Start and Levanger on September 16, 2024. The game kicks off at 19:00 at the Sparebanken Soer Arena and is part of the action in Norway’s 1. Division. Right now, Start is sitting at the 14th spot in the league with 20 points. They are desperately trying to climb out of the relegation zone. On the other hand, Levanger is at the 10th position with 24 points. They’re safer, but a few slip-ups could drag them back into the danger zone.
Anticipate a captivating showdown as both teams aim to shake off their current standing. Start has had a bumpy ride lately with two wins, two losses, and a draw from their last five games. Levanger is not in the best shape, either, securing only one win, alongside two draws and two losses. Historically, these teams often end their encounters in draws, keeping fans on their toes. Watch out for Start’s Eirik Schulze, who is keen to add to his six-goal tally.
Start vs Levanger Prediction & Betting Tip
The mood favors Start as they prepare to showcase their home turf advantage at the Sparebanken Soer Arena, despite their league standing. Betting odds hint at an edge for Start, making them slightly the team to back.
| Start vs Levanger Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting Tip | Odds |
| Start 0.00 (AH) | 2.24 (home win), 3.63 (draw), 2.71 (away win) |
Start has been stronger at home, so the advice is to consider betting on them to win or draw. Levanger might find it hard to secure a win here.
Start vs Levanger Odds
The betting odds suggest a balanced fight with a small advantage to Start, mostly due to their performance at home. Expect an evenly matched game where neither team clearly outshines the other, yet defensive weaknesses could lead to more goals.
| Start vs Levanger Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Start Win | 2.24 |
| Draw | 3.63 |
| Levanger Win | 2.71 |
Odds suggest a tight match, with draws being a common result in past encounters. Both teams showing defensive lapses could mean a lively game with goals.
Start Team Analysis
Start Recent Performance
Start has been up and down recently. They won against Sogndal but then faced a tough loss to Raufoss. Their latest games—two wins, two losses, and a draw—show inconsistency and some defensive slip-ups, allowing goals in each game.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Start | Sogndal | 2-1 Win |
| Raufoss | Start | 3-2 Loss |
| Start | Mjoendalen | 1-0 Win |
| KFUM | Start | 2-2 Draw |
| Asker | Start | 1-0 Loss |
Their last home win against Mjoendalen was a display of defensive strength they’ll want to repeat. They thrive on quick counterattacks to take advantage of opponents’ mistakes, even if it sometimes leaves them exposed at the back.
Start Key Players
Eirik Schulze leads Start’s attack with his six goals this season. His knack for scoring makes him a key player to watch. Defensively, they lean on experienced players to keep things stable. The goalie has made crucial saves lately, helping protect leads or narrow losses.
Midfield plays a crucial role in connecting defense and attack, helping to maintain balance. Youth players add energy and unpredictability, supported by the home crowd’s cheers, which inspires them to perform well at Sparebanken Soer Arena. Discipline is vital, with past red cards affecting their strategies.
Start Suspensions & Injuries
Injuries have forced Start to be smart about squad rotations and tactics. Some players are on the mend but need careful management to avoid further issues.
| Player | Injury/Suspension | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Defender X | Knee Injury | Late September 2024 |
| Midfielder Y | Ankle Knock | Monitoring Daily |
Key players missing from action require tactical changes, focusing on those who are fit and ready. This constant juggling is crucial as they evaluate their squad’s depth.
Start Tactics and Formation
Start usually sticks to a transitional strategy, switching between a solid midfield and a careful defense. They rely on quick counterattacks to catch opponents off guard, often using quick passes to create chances. They like to press early on to control the game’s pace, but they must be careful not to overcommit on defense.
Their adaptable approach lets them change formations as needed, keeping control of the match and masking defensive gaps. This flexibility is a key part of their game plan.
Levanger Team Analysis
Levanger Recent Performance
Levanger has been inconsistent recently. Their highlight was a 3-0 triumph over Raufoss, but they often stumble due to defensive errors, which need fixing.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Levanger | Raufoss | 3-0 Win |
| Sogndal | Levanger | 2-2 Draw |
| Levanger | Sandefjord | 1-2 Loss |
| Asker | Levanger | 1-1 Draw |
| Levanger | KFUM | 0-3 Loss |
They struggle defensively, which costs them, and their results show that defensive frailties are a recurring issue.
Levanger Key Players
Sanel Bojadzic stands out for Levanger with 13 goals this season, central to their attack. Midfielders help adjust strategies and keep the play flowing, depending on Levanger’s game plan.
Team continuity is tough with injuries like Ulstad’s, which affects their flexibility, especially under pressure. Veteran defenders are key to preventing Start from exploiting their backline.
Young players often deliver under pressure, bringing fresh energy and stepping up during critical moments in matches.
Levanger Suspensions & Injuries
Levanger faces difficulties due to injuries impacting their lineup and strategies ahead of the match.
| Player | Injury/Suspension | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Høstland | Muscle Injury | Out for 2 matches |
| Ulstad | Foot Injury | Indefinite recovery |
Missing midfielders like Høstland requires tactical shifts and finding new talent to fill gaps while managing fatigue in an intense fixture list.
Levanger Tactics and Formation
Levanger usually sets up a strong defense paired with quick transitions. A 5-at-the-back formation helps block Start’s attacks, supported by a strategic midfield that adjusts to the flow of the game.
Variation in formations during key moments reflects Levanger’s adaptable defensive strategies when faced with fast-paced opponents.
By adjusting tactics, Levanger can respond to the dynamics of the game, particularly during unpredictable shifts that require strategic changes.
Start vs Levanger Head-to-Head Statistics
Recent encounters between Start and Levanger often end in draws, showcasing their competitive nature. Both team’s past 1-1 contests highlight their evenly matched tactical battles.
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Start | Levanger | 1-1 Draw |
| Levanger | Start | 1-1 Draw |
Start tends to take advantage of playing at home, while Levanger tests their mettle against well-matched opposition. Games often feature balanced possession and chances, hinting at possible tight outcomes amid current strategies.
Venue and Weather
Set in Kristiansand’s lively atmosphere, Sparebanken Soer Arena offers Start a significant home advantage, reinforced by vocal fan support. Hosting this key match adds emotional intensity for the home side.
September in Kristiansand is typically mild, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 17°C. This comfortable weather is ideal for a high-energy football match without worrying about extreme conditions.
Rain might play a role, although it’s not forecasted to start during the game. A damp pitch could affect ball control and tactics. Wind might prompt changes in strategy, making low, quick passes essential in these conditions, particularly for maintaining control on the ground through close-range play.
Understanding local weather gives Start an advantage, as they’re better at adjusting strategies in potentially varied climatic conditions typical of Kristiansand’s open sky.
