SlipsTips isn't available yet, but he's given me the freedom to share my analysis of one of Sunday's most interesting fixtures between Sandefjord and Bodo/Glimt in the Norwegian Eliteserien.
Sandefjord vs Bodo/Glimt (Sunday, 16:00)
Norway’s top flight returned after a 40-day break, and the title race has only intensified since the restart and the first few rounds.
Three teams are in the running for the trophy – Tromso, who have been a surprise package, reigning champions Viking, and the team we’ll be focusing on today – Bodo/Glimt.
It seems the break has done Superlaget a world of good, as they have put in the most convincing performances of all since the restart.
We certainly cannot overlook the fact that they have faced three teams from the bottom half of the table, but it is an indisputable fact that their defensive play has been flawless. Bodo have not conceded a single goal in their three matches since the restart.
Given Sandefjord’s position and their current form, it is entirely reasonable to expect a fourth consecutive victory.
Guttane have gone five consecutive matches without a win in the top flight (D2, L3), but to their credit, they certainly don’t go down without a fight, having scored at least once in every match.
This could be seen as an improvement, given that there is only one team that has scored fewer goals so far this season.
As you’d expect, the bookmakers are giving the four-time champions a significant advantage, so it’s completely pointless to back a win unless you’re playing a bet builder. A win + over 1.5 goals for Bodo isn’t a bad option, but I’ve got a better idea for this match.
However Bodo’s matches may end, they usually start in a similar way – with intense pressure and a high press in the first half, and in most cases, they’ve scored at least one goal before half-time.
That’s also my main prediction for this match – Bodo/Glimt to be up at half-time and then to win the match. So far, they have played 14 rounds in the Eliteserien, leading at half-time in 10 of them.
The important fact is that in all 10 matches they have led after the first 45 minutes, they have won. In other words, so far this season they have never lost their lead and have always secured the win.
You can opt to back a HT win at 3/4 or directly go for the HT/FT for Bodo/Glimt at 9/10, which is what I am planning to do.
I don’t think Sandefjord’s defence will be able to cope with the pressure early on. We saw a similar situation when they played against the other title favourites, Viking, last week, with Viking starting the match exactly as we expect Bodo to do, and scoring in the 9th minute.
Recommended Bet:
- Bodo/Glimt to win HT/FT – 9/10 (Bet365)
Vladislav has been professionally engaged in freelance journalism for seven years and has worked with numerous leading sports publications. A football and martial arts fanatic, he spent years training in both disciplines before turning to writing.
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