A comprehensive win over Vålerenga sealed the first Norwegian Eliteserien title for the Stavanger football club since 1991. Congratulations to Viking!
There were more than a few nerves when the Viking players took to the field on Sunday evening, knowing a win would see them lift Norway’s Eliteserien, the Norwegian Premier League, for the first time in many supporters’ living memories.
Although the home side were strong favorites to win the game, their opponents Vålerenga had defeated title rivals Bodø/Glimt just a few weeks beforehand, handing the title initiative to Viking.
Early Goals
But it didn’t take long for the nerves to settle as Edvin Austbø netted a terrific solo effort after just 10 minutes. TV2 pundit Simen Stamsø Møller called the “goal of the season” because of the special circumstances:
“You can shoot long shots, get a lucky break, anyone can do it. But to do what Edvin Austbø did on the field here, in this situation, in this game, with so many opponents in front of him, is so beautifully done.”
The wonder strike was quickly followed by a second from Martin Ove Roseth, all but ending the game after just 15 minutes.
Despite a strong period from the visitors towards the end of the first half and a goal from Elias Hagen, the result was never in doubt, and late goals sealed the 5-1 win, sparking an outpouring of joy in Stavanger’s Lyse Arena.
The win was necessary, as rivals Bodø/Glimt did their bit by beating Fredrikstad 5-0, but with Viking one point ahead, there was nothing more they could do.
Celebrations in Stavanger & Beyond
It brings to an end Viking’s long wait for Norway’s major football title, although their Norwegian Cup wins in 2001 and 2019 helped bridge the gap a little.
Viking’s victory also marks the first time since 2018 that the title goes to a team other than Bodø/Glimt or Molde, something that can only be positive for Norwegian football.
Viking fan and podcaster Lars Risan was brave enough to give an interview to BBC Radio 5 Live before the game about the prospects of a league title, which he called “a big deal.”
“It brings us all together and we can celebrate as a city. It’s one of those special things you never know when you’ll be able to experience again.
“You can feel the atmosphere in town. I want everyone to be able to take part in that. If we could just go down to stadium and have a big party that would be awesome.” They did just that.