Follo welcome Sarpsborg 08 to Langhus Kunstgress in the second round of the Norwegian Cup. The hosts have struggled for results in the 2. divisjon, while Sarpsborg arrive as clear favourites despite a difficult run in the Eliteserien.

Follo have struggled for consistency

Follo come into the cup match after a 2–2 draw away against Kjelsås. They twice fell behind but managed to respond and leave Grefsen with a point.

That result ended a run of two consecutive defeats. Follo lost 5–2 against Levanger before suffering a 1–0 home defeat against Eidsvold TF.

Their recent defensive record is a concern before facing an Eliteserien opponent. Follo have conceded thirteen goals across their last six matches and have kept only one clean sheet during that period.

The hosts have still shown that they can compete at Langhus Kunstgress. They defeated Tromsdalen 1–0 earlier in September and should be comfortable with the artificial surface.

Follo are unlikely to control possession against Sarpsborg, but the cup gives them an opportunity to defend deep, play without pressure and look for chances on the counterattack.

Sarpsborg need a positive result

Sarpsborg have gone three league matches without a victory. They drew 2–2 against Vålerenga and 1–1 away against Fredrikstad before losing 3–1 at home against KFUM.

The performance against KFUM was particularly disappointing, and this cup match gives Sarpsborg an opportunity to respond before returning to Eliteserien action.

There may be changes to the starting lineup, but Sarpsborg should still have a clear advantage in quality. Their squad contains players with considerably more experience at the highest level, and they should create chances even if some regular starters are rested.

Sarpsborg also have something to play for beyond simply avoiding an upset. A home match against Vålerenga awaits the winner in the third round.

The difference in quality should become clear

Cup matches against lower-league opposition are not always straightforward. Follo can make the opening stages difficult by defending with several players behind the ball and using the home surface to their advantage.

The longer the match remains level, the more confidence the hosts will gain. Sarpsborg therefore need to play with intensity from the beginning and avoid giving Follo encouragement.

Even with possible rotation, the visitors should have too much quality. Follo have conceded regularly against 2. divisjon opponents, and keeping Sarpsborg quiet for the entire match will be a much more difficult task.

Sarpsborg’s recent defensive problems mean Follo could still create a few opportunities. However, the visitors should control most of the possession and produce enough chances to win by more than one goal.

Verdict

Sarpsborg arrive without a win in their last three league matches, but the difference between the teams remains significant.

Follo have struggled defensively and now face an opponent from the Eliteserien. Sarpsborg should win, although the Asian handicap provides some protection if they only manage a one-goal victory.

Tip

Sarpsborg 08 -1 Asian Handicap