Start – Lillestrom

Match analysis

Start host Lillestrøm on their turf in what promises to be a stark contrast of fortunes. Sitting 16th with just 16 points from four wins, four draws and twelve defeats, the home side have struggled to find the net, managing only 22 goals while conceding 41. Lillestrøm, by contrast, sit comfortably in fifth place with 32 points, having recorded ten victories, two draws and eight losses, and boast a positive goal difference of 28‑26. The gap in form and firepower suggests Lillestrøm will enter the match as clear favourites, yet Start will be desperate to claw back points and avoid the relegation zone. A win for the visitors could see them close the gap on the top half, while a surprise result would give Start a lifeline in their survival battle.