Brann return to Brann Stadion on Sunday looking to continue their impressive resurgence when they host Vålerenga in an intriguing Eliteserien encounter.

Separated by just two points in the table, both clubs have rediscovered their momentum after difficult starts to the campaign. Brann have won back-to-back league matches since Eirik Horneland returned to the dugout, while Vålerenga arrive in Bergen buoyed by a thumping victory that has reignited their push towards the top half.

With European commitments adding another layer of intrigue for the home side, Sunday’s meeting promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the weekend.

Horneland has reignited belief in Bergen

Brann’s season looked in danger of drifting after three consecutive defeats before the mid-season break left last year’s fourth-placed finishers well behind the leading pack.

The return of Eirik Horneland has transformed the mood almost immediately.

The familiar face has overseen consecutive league victories against Start and Molde before guiding Brann to a hard-earned 2-2 draw away to Universitatea Cluj in the UEFA Conference League on Thursday. Although surrendering a two-goal lead was frustrating, avoiding defeat in a difficult European away tie maintained the momentum that has been building since football resumed.

The challenge for Horneland now is balancing domestic ambitions with European football. Brann have already played two demanding matches in the space of a week, and squad rotation could become increasingly important as the fixture list begins to intensify.

Noah Holm continues to lead the attack after another productive campaign in front of goal, while Niklas Castro marked his return to the starting line-up with a goal in Romania. Kristian Eriksen remains a doubt after missing the midweek trip, while Sakarias Opsahl, Nana Boakye and Jacob Lungi Sørensen continue to limit Horneland’s options in midfield.

Despite the physical demands of Thursday’s match, Brann will take confidence from the attacking football they have produced under their returning manager, with renewed intensity evident both on and off the ball.

Vålerenga beginning to fulfil their potential

Vålerenga have endured an inconsistent campaign, but recent performances suggest they are beginning to resemble the side many expected before the season started.

Johannes Moesgaard’s team responded emphatically to their heavy defeat at Tromsø by dismantling Aalesund 6-1, producing arguably their most complete performance of the campaign. The victory showcased the attacking depth now available, with Lucas Haren, Filip Thorvaldsen and Mohamed Ofkir all finding the net in an outstanding display.

Ofkir’s return from injury could prove particularly significant during the second half of the season. The winger made an immediate impact from the bench with two goals and now provides Moesgaard with an enviable selection dilemma ahead of the trip to Bergen.

While the visitors have improved considerably in recent weeks, consistency remains the biggest question. They have alternated impressive victories with disappointing setbacks throughout the campaign, making it difficult to predict exactly which version of Vålerenga will appear on Sunday.

With Magnus Sjøeng, Odin Thiago Holm and Ole Sæter still sidelined, the visitors are not at full strength, but their attacking options have given renewed optimism that they can continue climbing the table after a slow opening to the season.

Verdict: Entertaining contest could finish honours even

Both sides head into this fixture with genuine reasons for optimism.

Brann have rediscovered their identity under Horneland and continue to build confidence despite a demanding schedule that now includes European football. Vålerenga, meanwhile, travel west after delivering one of the performances of the Eliteserien season and will believe they have the attacking quality to trouble any defence.

The hosts may feel the effects of Thursday night’s exertions, while Vålerenga have enjoyed a full week to prepare. That extra freshness could prove significant in what looks set to be an open and entertaining contest.

Neither side would be overly disappointed with a point, and a draw appears the most likely outcome.

Tip

Draw.