– It is a cup final for both, almost, says Espen Bugge Pettersen, managing director of Sandefjord football.
With only three matches left to play, this is a match the Skien team must win to have hope for continued top-tier play.
Sandefjord has 28 points and is placed above the relegation playoff.
Two young guys express what it takes for Odd to beat Sandefjord.
Close to the bottom
Sandefjord coach Hans Erik Ødegaard is unsure whether they will face an offensive or defensive Odd on Sunday.
– They have shown a bit of different variants this season. We’re a little uncertain, but they certainly won’t be defensive, because they have to score.
On Saturday, Lillestrøm lost to Brann. They are now only one point ahead of Odd and four points behind Sandefjord.
– It’s tight, so we have to do our part regardless. That is the most important and only focus we have.
– Three points is all that matters
The last time Odd and Sandefjord met, it ended in a draw.
In Sunday’s match, everything is about avoiding relegation.
The last time Odd and Sandefjord met, it ended in a 2–2 draw.
Photo: Trond R. Teigen / NTB
– A lot is at stake for both clubs. This is the match Sandefjord should win and Odd must win, to avoid relegation to the 1st division.
That is what NRK’s Magnus Skatvedt Iversen says. He will commentate the match for NRK in Sandefjord on Sunday.
NRK’s reporter believes three points are the only thing that matters – for both teams.
– Odd must win, but victory is also important for Sandefjord. They should win to avoid ending up at the very bottom, which could lead to direct relegation.
You can follow the match on 4-4-2 Radiosporten here.
Relegation battle in Eliteserien
This is the status of the relegation battle with three matches remaining in this year’s Eliteserien season:
12th place: Tromsø – 30 points.
13th place: Sandefjord Fotball – 28 points.
14th place: Haugesund – 27 points.
15th place: Lillestrøm – 24 points.
16th place: Odd – 23 points.
The bottom two teams will be relegated to the Obos League, while 14th place gives a playoff.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Espen Bugge Pettersen, Managing Director of Sandefjord Football
Editor: Welcome, Espen. With just three matches left in the season, it sounds like Sandefjord is facing a crucial point in their campaign. Can you give us some insight into the team’s current mindset as they prepare for this weekend’s match?
Espen Bugge Pettersen: Thank you for having me. Absolutely—it truly is a cup final for both Sandefjord and Odd. We’re fully aware that every match from here on out is pivotal in our fight against relegation. The pressure is immense, but I believe our squad is mentally prepared and focused solely on securing those crucial three points.
Editor: Speaking of Odd, their unpredictability has caught your coach off guard. How are the players preparing for the possibility of facing either an offensive or a defensive strategy from them?
Espen Bugge Pettersen: Coach Ødegaard is right; Odd has varied their approach quite a bit this season. They have shown they can adapt in different games, and while we suspect they’ll come out attacking, it keeps us on our toes. Our players are trained to be flexible and responsive, so we will adjust accordingly on the pitch. What matters most is our own game—maintaining possession and creating chances.
Editor: You mentioned that it’s not just about Sandefjord—Lillestrøm’s recent loss keeps things tense in the standings. How closely is the team monitoring results from other matches, or is all focus on your own performance?
Espen Bugge Pettersen: While it’s hard to ignore the implications of other teams’ results, our primary focus has to be on ourselves. We have to take care of our business first and foremost, and concentrate on winning our matches. Every point is vital as we strive to ensure our place in the top tier.
Editor: Last time the two teams met, it ended in a draw. Are there lessons learned from that game that you think could shape the approach this time?
Espen Bugge Pettersen: Definitely. The last match was a hard-fought battle that highlighted both our strengths and weaknesses. We’ve reviewed that game closely, and our coaching staff has pinpointed areas for improvement. The draw was a good point, but we’ll be looking to put our best foot forward this time around and bring home the victory.
Editor: Looking ahead, how do you feel about the atmosphere and the support from fans as the season draws to a close in such a tight race?
Espen Bugge Pettersen: The atmosphere has been electric! Our supporters have rallied around us, and their passion drives the team. We’re grateful for their unwavering support, especially in these critical moments. The belief they have in us can make a significant difference—every cheer can boost our morale and push us to perform better on the field.
Editor: Exciting times ahead! Final thoughts as you prepare for Sunday’s match?
Espen Bugge Pettersen: It’s simple—three points is all that matters. We’re heading into this fixture with determination and confidence. We know what’s at stake, and we’re ready to leave everything on the pitch to ensure that we’re competing in the top division next season.
Editor: Thank you, Espen. Best of luck this weekend. We’ll be cheering for Sandefjord!
Espen Bugge Pettersen: Thank you! We appreciate the support.