Odd vs Haugesund: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Friday, 03 July 2026 by Steve
Odd vs Haugesund
Norway - OBOS-ligaen Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
Samuel Skree Skjeldal / Odd
The 2026 OBOS-ligaen season has reached a critical juncture, and the upcoming clash between Odd and Haugesund at Skagerak Arena promises to be one of the most compelling fixtures of the campaign. Both sides enter this encounter with genuine promotion ambitions, and the stakes could hardly be higher as we approach the midway point of the Norwegian First Division calendar. Odd, playing their second consecutive season in the second tier after relegation from the Eliteserien, have shown flashes of the quality that once made them a fixture in Norway's top flight. Meanwhile, Haugesund are embarking on their first campaign in the OBOS-ligaen following their demotion from the Eliteserien at the conclusion of the 2025 season, and they have responded to the setback with remarkable resilience and determination. For more insights on today's matches, check out our prediction football today page.
Odd currently occupy 5th position in the league table with 24 points from 13 matches, having recorded 7 wins, 3 draws, and 3 defeats. Their goal difference stands at a respectable +10, with 26 goals scored and 16 conceded. The Skien-based club has been particularly formidable at home, where they have established Skagerak Arena as a fortress that visiting teams find increasingly difficult to breach. Under the guidance of Danish manager Per Frandsen, who took charge in September 2025, Odd have developed a cohesive playing style that balances attacking flair with defensive discipline. Frandsen's tactical acumen has been evident in the way he has integrated new signings into the squad while maintaining the core identity of a club with 133 years of rich footballing history. If you're looking for tomorrow's fixtures, visit our prediction football tomorrow section.
Haugesund, on the other hand, sit in 2nd place with 28 points from 13 matches, boasting an impressive record of 9 wins, 1 draw, and 3 defeats. Their goal difference of +15 (40 goals scored, 25 conceded) reflects an attacking philosophy that has served them well in their debut season at this level. The appointment of Endre Eide as head coach in April 2026 has proven to be a masterstroke, with the 32-year-old Norwegian transforming the club's fortunes after a difficult start to the campaign that saw the departure of Toni Korkeakunnas. Eide has instilled a winning mentality in his squad, and the results speak for themselves: a 60% win rate across his 10 matches in charge, averaging 1.90 points per game. The visitors will be eager to maintain their momentum and close the gap on league leaders Strømsgodset, who currently hold a slender advantage at the summit of the OBOS-ligaen table. For teams expected to win, see our must-win teams today analysis.
Tactical Preview
Sory not sorry / fkh
Formation & Key Matchups
Odd 4-4-2
Per Frandsen has predominantly deployed Odd in a traditional 4-4-2 formation this season, a system that has allowed the team to maintain defensive solidity while providing sufficient attacking outlets. The back four, marshalled by the experienced Nikolas Walstad and the Danish duo of Jacob Buus and Hans Christian Bonnesen, has been the foundation upon which Odd's campaign has been built. The full-backs, Samuel Skree Skjeldal on the left and Jakob Vadstrup on the right, provide width and overlapping runs that stretch opposition defences. In midfield, the partnership of Filip Rønningen Jørgensen and Noah Kojo offers a blend of creativity and industry, while the wide positions are occupied by the dynamic Syver Aas and the newly acquired Villads Rasmussen from Danish football. Up front, the striking partnership of Faniel Tewelde and Sanel Bojadzic has yielded impressive results, with Tewelde leading the club's scoring charts with 9 goals and Bojadzic contributing 5 goals and 5 assists in a campaign that has seen him emerge as one of the most influential players in the division. For more on football schedules, check our football schedule odds fixture overview.
Haugesund 4-5-1 / 4-3-3
Endre Eide has shown tactical flexibility during his tenure, alternating between a 4-5-1 formation that prioritises midfield control and a more expansive 4-3-3 system when chasing games or facing defensively-minded opponents. The defensive unit is anchored by the experienced Martin Bjørnbak, a 34-year-old centre-back who returned to the club from Molde and has brought invaluable top-flight experience to the backline. The full-back positions are occupied by Stian Stray Molde on the left and the versatile Vegard Solheim on the right, both of whom are comfortable contributing to attacking phases. The midfield engine room is powered by the industrious Parfait Bizoza and the creative Pyry Hannola, with Sivert Heltne Nilsen providing the defensive shield in front of the back four. The attacking trident typically features the pacey Emil Rohd and the skilful Niklas Sandberg on the flanks, with Sory Diarra operating as the focal point of the attack. Diarra has been in scintillating form, and his ability to hold up play and bring others into the game will be crucial against Odd's organised defence. Learn more about advanced live betting analysis xG and pressing to understand modern tactical approaches.
Critical Vulnerability
The critical vulnerability in this match lies in the contrasting defensive records of the two teams when facing high-quality attacking opposition. Odd have conceded 16 goals in 13 matches, a statistic that suggests occasional lapses in concentration at the back, particularly when playing against teams that employ a high-pressing game. Haugesund, despite their impressive goal-scoring record, have conceded 25 goals, indicating that their attacking philosophy sometimes leaves them exposed at the back. The key battle will be in the midfield area, where Odd's disciplined 4-4-2 will look to neutralise Haugesund's creative midfielders, while Haugesund will aim to exploit the spaces behind Odd's full-backs when they push forward. The match could well be decided by which team can better execute their transitional play, with both sides possessing players capable of punishing defensive errors on the counter-attack. For insights on teams that win either half, visit our win either half predictions.
Team News & Squad Status
Odd 📈
- Faniel Tewelde is the club's top scorer with 9 goals in 13 league appearances and will be the primary attacking threat.
- Sanel Bojadzic has been in excellent form, contributing 5 goals and 5 assists, making him a key creative outlet.
- Samuel Skree Skjeldal leads the team with 6 assists from the left-back position, highlighting his importance in build-up play.
- New signing Villads Rasmussen has settled well since arriving from Hobro IK in March 2026, adding quality to the midfield.
- Defender Jacob Buus, signed from Esbjerg fB in February 2026, has established himself as a first-choice centre-back.
- Young goalkeeper Sebastian Hansen, aged 19, has impressed between the posts and is expected to retain his starting position.
- Club legend Steffen Hagen retired at the end of the 2025 season after 590 appearances, leaving a significant void in defence that the new recruits have worked hard to fill.
- Midfielder Etzaz Hussain also retired, while Tobias Hammer Svendsen departed for Kristiansund and Bilal Njie moved to KFUM.
Haugesund 📈
- Sory Diarra has been the standout performer in attack, with his pace and finishing causing problems for every defence in the division.
- Niklas Sandberg, signed from Sarpsborg 08, has added creativity and goals from the right flank since his arrival.
- Bruno Leite, the Cape Verdean midfielder, brings energy and technical quality to the centre of the park.
- Martin Bjørnbak's return from Molde has strengthened the defence considerably, with his leadership proving invaluable.
- Goalkeeper Frank Stople, signed from Strømsgodset, has been a reliable presence between the posts at just 24 years old.
- Young defender Miika Koskela, signed from Tromsø, has impressed alongside Bjørnbak in the heart of defence.
- Lars Bjørnerud Remmem, acquired from Brann, has added depth and quality to the midfield options.
- The departure of several players including Madiodio Dia to Portsmouth and Claus Niyukuri to Sarpsborg 08 has been offset by the quality of incoming transfers.
Predicted Lineups
Lommel SK - samengroeien
| Odd 4-4-2 | Haugesund 4-5-1 |
|---|---|
| Sebastian Hansen (GK) | Frank Stople (GK) |
| Jakob Vadstrup (RB) | Vegard Solheim (RB) |
| Hans Christian Bonnesen (CB) | Martin Bjørnbak (CB) |
| Jacob Buus (CB) | Miika Koskela (CB) |
| Samuel Skree Skjeldal (LB) | Stian Stray Molde (LB) |
| Syver Aas (RM) | Niklas Sandberg (RM) |
| Filip Rønningen Jørgensen (CM) | Parfait Bizoza (CM) |
| Noah Kojo (CM) | Sivert Heltne Nilsen (CM) |
| Villads Rasmussen (LM) | Pyry Hannola (LM) |
| Faniel Tewelde (ST) | Emil Rohd (AM) |
| Sanel Bojadzic (ST) | Sory Diarra (ST) |
Head-to-Head Record
Bruno er tilbake! / fkh
The historical rivalry between Odd and Haugesund is one of the most evenly contested in Norwegian football, with both clubs having enjoyed periods of dominance over the other. Across all competitions and divisions, the two teams have met on 37 occasions, with each side recording 15 victories and 7 matches ending in draws. The aggregate scoreline of 55-56 in Haugesund's favour underscores just how closely fought these encounters have been over the years. In recent seasons, Haugesund have held the upper hand, winning both of their most recent meetings in the 2024 Eliteserien campaign, including a 2-1 victory at Skagerak Arena and a 2-1 triumph at Haugesund Sparebank Arena. These results will give the visitors confidence heading into this fixture, though Odd will be determined to reverse the trend on home soil. For more on draws in football, visit our 4 draws football tips page.
The most recent encounter between these two sides came in December 2024, when Haugesund secured a 2-1 victory in the Eliteserien. That match was characterised by a cagey first half followed by an explosive second period, with Haugesund's superior finishing proving the difference. Odd will be keen to put that result behind them and demonstrate that they have learned from the experience. The historical record suggests that matches between these teams are rarely one-sided affairs, and with both clubs currently in strong form, another closely contested encounter seems inevitable. The 2-2 draw prediction aligns with the historical trend of tight, competitive matches where neither side is able to establish clear dominance. Check out our double chance prediction for more insights on covering multiple outcomes.
Key Players Comparison
Faniel Tewelde (Odd)
The 19-year-old Norwegian forward has been the revelation of the 2026 season, leading Odd's scoring charts with 9 goals. His pace, movement, and clinical finishing make him a constant threat to opposition defences.
Sory Diarra (Haugesund)
The Malian striker has been Haugesund's talisman since joining the club, with his physical presence and ability to score from various situations making him one of the most feared attackers in the OBOS-ligaen.
Samuel Skree Skjeldal (Odd)
The left-back has been a creative force from defence, leading the team with 6 assists. His overlapping runs and delivery from wide areas will be crucial in unlocking Haugesund's defence.
Bruno Leite (Haugesund)
The Cape Verdean midfielder brings a wealth of experience and technical quality to Haugesund's engine room. His ability to control the tempo of matches and deliver incisive passes makes him a key player.
The individual battles across the pitch will be fascinating to watch. Tewelde's pace against Bjørnbak's experience, Bojadzic's creativity against Heltne Nilsen's defensive discipline, and Skjeldal's overlapping runs against Solheim's defensive positioning are just a few of the matchups that could determine the outcome. Both teams possess players capable of producing moments of individual brilliance that can turn a match on its head, and the supporters at Skagerak Arena can expect a showcase of the best talent the OBOS-ligaen has to offer. The key players on both sides have demonstrated consistency throughout the season, and their form heading into this fixture suggests that we are in for a high-quality encounter with plenty of goalmouth action. For the best teams to win today, see our 10 teams to win today selections.
The Managers
Per Frandsen (Odd)
The 56-year-old Danish manager took charge of Odd in September 2025, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his playing days at Bolton Wanderers and his coaching career in Scandinavia. Frandsen has implemented a pragmatic approach that has yielded positive results, with Odd currently sitting in 5th place and well within reach of the promotion spots. His ability to get the best out of young players has been particularly noteworthy, with the development of Tewelde and Kojo under his guidance a testament to his coaching abilities. Frandsen's tactical flexibility has also been evident, as he has adjusted his team's approach depending on the opposition, sometimes opting for a more conservative 4-5-1 when facing stronger teams and reverting to the attacking 4-4-2 against sides that sit deep. For more on full-time predictions, visit our fulltime prediction page.
Frandsen's man-management skills have been crucial in maintaining squad harmony following the departure of several experienced players at the end of the 2025 season. The retirements of club captain Steffen Hagen and midfielder Etzaz Hussain, combined with the transfers of Tobias Hammer Svendsen and Bilal Njie, could have destabilised the squad, but Frandsen has successfully integrated new signings and promoted young talent from the academy. His experience in Danish football has also helped in the recruitment of players like Jacob Buus and Villads Rasmussen, who have adapted quickly to the demands of Norwegian football. Against Haugesund, Frandsen will need to devise a game plan that neutralises the visitors' attacking threat while exploiting their defensive vulnerabilities. Learn more about avoiding common betting mistakes in our mastering football betting key mistakes to avoid guide.
Endre Eide (Haugesund)
At just 32 years old, Endre Eide represents a new generation of Norwegian coaches who are making their mark on the domestic game. Appointed as Haugesund's head coach in April 2026 on a four-year contract, Eide has transformed the club's fortunes after a difficult start to the season that saw the departure of Toni Korkeakunnas. Under Eide's leadership, Haugesund have achieved a 60% win rate across 10 matches, averaging 1.90 points per game and climbing to 2nd place in the OBOS-ligaen table. His tactical flexibility and willingness to adapt his approach based on the opposition have been key to this turnaround. For live scores from around the world, check our live football scores major and minor league page.
Eide's coaching philosophy emphasises high-intensity pressing, quick transitions, and attacking football, a style that has resonated with the Haugesund squad and supporters alike. His ability to get the best out of players like Sory Diarra and Niklas Sandberg has been particularly impressive, with both forwards thriving in the attacking system he has implemented. Eide's man-management skills have also been evident in the way he has handled the transition from the Eliteserien to the OBOS-ligaen, maintaining the squad's morale and belief despite the disappointment of relegation. The young coach will be eager to continue his excellent start to life at Haugesund and secure a positive result against a well-organised Odd side that will provide a stern test of his tactical acumen. For accumulator betting strategies, see our accumulator betting in football guide.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 3.40
Given the evenly matched nature of these two sides, their similar league positions, and the historical trend of close encounters, the draw represents the best value bet for this fixture. Both teams have shown resilience in recent weeks, with Odd unbeaten in their last three matches and Haugesund having lost just once in their last five outings. The 2-2 scoreline prediction further supports the draw as the most likely outcome, with both teams possessing the attacking quality to find the net while also having the defensive organisation to avoid defeat. The European odds of 3.40 offer excellent value for a result that appears highly probable based on the available evidence. For more on understanding odds, visit our understand online betting odds guide.
Odds: 1.85
Both Odd and Haugesund have been involved in high-scoring matches throughout the 2026 season, with Odd averaging exactly 2.0 goals per game and Haugesund averaging an impressive 3.08 goals per game. The attacking talent on display, combined with the defensive vulnerabilities that both teams have shown on occasion, makes the over 2.5 goals market an attractive proposition. Odd's matches have featured over 2.5 goals in 7 of their 13 league fixtures, while Haugesund have exceeded this threshold in 8 of their 13 matches. With players like Tewelde, Bojadzic, Diarra, and Sandberg all in good form, there is every reason to expect a goal-filled encounter at Skagerak Arena. Check our over under prediction for more goal market insights.
Odds: 1.70
The both teams to score market is another strong option for this fixture, with the attacking prowess of both sides making it difficult to envisage a clean sheet for either team. Odd have kept just 4 clean sheets in 13 matches, while Haugesund have managed only 3 shutouts in their 13 fixtures. The defensive records of both teams, combined with their potent attacking options, point towards a match where both goalkeepers will be tested. The European odds of 1.70 represent solid value for a bet that has a high probability of success based on the statistical evidence from the 2026 season. For more on over/under betting strategies, see our over under betting guide.
Odds: 11.00
Our prediction of a 2-2 draw is supported by the historical head-to-head record, which shows a tendency towards closely contested matches with goals at both ends. The tactical analysis suggests that both teams have the quality to score twice, while also possessing the defensive resilience to avoid a heavier defeat. Odd's home advantage at Skagerak Arena, where they have been formidable this season, will be counterbalanced by Haugesund's impressive away form and their status as one of the division's top scorers. The 11.00 odds for a 2-2 correct score offer an excellent return for punters willing to back our prediction, and the statistical evidence suggests that this outcome is well within the realms of possibility. Visit our correct score tips page for more score predictions.
Odds: 2.40
For those looking for a player-specific bet, Faniel Tewelde to score anytime offers an intriguing option. The 19-year-old forward has been in scintillating form this season, leading Odd's scoring charts with 9 goals in 13 appearances. His pace, movement, and clinical finishing make him a constant threat, and he will be eager to add to his tally against a Haugesund defence that has shown vulnerability on occasion. Tewelde's ability to score from various situations, including open play, set pieces, and counter-attacks, makes him a reliable option for an anytime goalscorer bet. The odds of 2.40 represent good value for a player who has demonstrated his goal-scoring credentials throughout the 2026 campaign. For live betting opportunities, check our live betting section.
📊 Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
The prediction of a 2-2 draw is based on a comprehensive analysis of both teams' form, tactical setups, and historical head-to-head record. Odd's home advantage at Skagerak Arena, where they have been particularly strong this season, gives them a slight edge, but Haugesund's superior league position and impressive attacking record mean that they cannot be underestimated. The match is likely to be an open, entertaining affair with goals at both ends, as both teams possess the quality to create chances and convert them. Odd's attacking duo of Tewelde and Bojadzic will test Haugesund's defence, while the visitors' forward line of Diarra, Sandberg, and Rohd will pose significant problems for the home side's back four.
The midfield battle will be crucial, with both teams fielding industrious and creative players who will look to control the tempo of the match. Odd's 4-4-2 formation will provide width and crossing opportunities, while Haugesund's flexible 4-5-1 / 4-3-3 will offer numerical superiority in central areas. The match could see a cagey opening period as both teams feel each other out, followed by an increasingly open second half as the desire for three points leads to more risk-taking. Ultimately, the quality on both sides suggests that a share of the spoils is the most likely outcome, with a 2-2 draw reflecting the evenly matched nature of this compelling OBOS-ligaen fixture.
Key Insights & Statistics
- Odd have scored 26 goals in 13 matches this season, averaging 2.0 goals per game, while Haugesund have netted 40 goals at an average of 3.08 per game.
- Odd's home record at Skagerak Arena has been impressive, with the team picking up the majority of their points on familiar turf.
- Haugesund have the second-best attacking record in the division, with only league leaders Strømsgodset scoring more goals.
- The head-to-head record is perfectly balanced at 15 wins apiece, with 7 draws from 37 meetings, suggesting another close encounter.
- Odd's top scorer Faniel Tewelde has 9 goals, while Haugesund's Sory Diarra has been equally prolific in front of goal.
- Both teams have shown vulnerability in defence, with Odd conceding 16 goals and Haugesund letting in 25, pointing towards a high-scoring match.
- Odd are unbeaten in their last 3 matches (W1 D2), while Haugesund have won 4 of their last 5 fixtures.
- The match will be played at Skagerak Arena, which has a capacity of 13,500 and is known for its lively atmosphere.
- Per Frandsen has a 43% win rate since taking charge of Odd, while Endre Eide boasts a 60% win rate at Haugesund.
- Both teams are in the promotion hunt, with Haugesund in 2nd place and Odd in 5th, just 4 points behind the visitors.
Conclusion
The Odd vs Haugesund fixture represents one of the most intriguing matchups in the 2026 OBOS-ligaen season, pitting two clubs with genuine promotion aspirations against each other in a contest that could have significant implications for the final league standings. Odd, playing their second season in the second tier, have shown the quality and determination required to mount a serious challenge for a return to the Eliteserien, while Haugesund have responded to their relegation with a campaign that suggests an immediate bounce-back is well within their capabilities. The historical rivalry between these two teams, perfectly balanced at 15 wins apiece, adds an extra layer of intrigue to what promises to be a closely contested encounter.
From a betting perspective, the draw at 3.40 represents the best value, with the 2-2 correct score offering an attractive return at 11.00 for those seeking higher odds. The over 2.5 goals market at 1.85 and both teams to score at 1.70 are also strong options, given the attacking talent on display and the defensive vulnerabilities that both teams have shown throughout the season. Faniel Tewelde to score anytime at 2.40 is an intriguing player-specific bet for those looking to add an individual element to their wagering strategy. As always, punters are reminded to gamble responsibly and to consider the inherent risks involved in sports betting.
Ultimately, this match has all the ingredients of a classic OBOS-ligaen encounter: two well-matched teams, plenty of attacking quality, a rich historical rivalry, and the promise of a lively atmosphere at Skagerak Arena. Whether you are a passionate supporter of either club, a neutral football fan, or a bettor looking for value in the markets, the Odd vs Haugesund fixture on 5 July 2026 is not to be missed. Our prediction of a 2-2 draw reflects the evenly matched nature of these two sides and the expectation of an entertaining, goal-filled afternoon in Skien.