Raufoss vs Strommen: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Wednesday, 01 July 2026 by Steve
Raufoss vs Strømmen
OBOS-ligaen Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
Stroemmen IF vs. Raufoss IL - Boxscore - Live Score - August 26, 2026 | FOX Sports
This Friday evening clash at the NAMMO Stadion in Raufoss pits two struggling sides against each other in what could prove to be a pivotal encounter in the 2026 OBOS-ligaen campaign. Raufoss, currently sitting in 15th place with just 10 points from 13 matches, desperately need a positive result to climb away from the relegation zone. Their opponents, Strømmen, occupy 14th position with 11 points, meaning this is effectively a six-pointer in the battle for survival in Norway's second tier. Both teams have endured torrid starts to the season, with defensive frailties and inconsistency plaguing their respective campaigns. The stakes could not be higher as we approach the halfway mark of the season, and neither side can afford another setback if they harbour realistic ambitions of avoiding the drop to the PostNord-ligaen.
Raufoss come into this fixture on the back of a demoralising 0-3 defeat away to Sandnes Ulf, a result that extended their worrying run of just one win in their last five outings. The home side have been particularly vulnerable at the back, conceding 31 goals in 13 matches at an alarming average of 2.38 per game. However, their attacking output has shown flashes of promise, with Adrian Rogulj leading the line admirably and the creative talents of Rafik Zekhnini providing genuine threat from the wide areas. The appointment of Ole Petter Berget as head coach in late May has yet to yield the desired turnaround, but the former assistant will be hoping that home advantage and the passionate support at the NAMMO Stadion can spark a revival. Raufoss have historically been a difficult proposition on their own turf, and they will need to rediscover that fortress mentality if they are to take anything from this encounter.
Strømmen, meanwhile, arrive in Raufoss with a renewed sense of optimism following their dramatic 3-2 victory over Moss in their previous outing. That result, secured through a late winner, provided a much-needed boost for a side that had been struggling for confidence and consistency. Under the caretaker management duo of Marcus Ericson and Svein Roger Pettersen, who took over after Jens Wedeborg was dismissed in late May, Strømmen have shown signs of improvement despite their lowly league position. Their squad, bolstered by several astute signings including Deni Dashaev from Start and Tochukwu Joseph from Lillestrøm, possesses more quality than their current standing suggests. Nikolai Jakobsen Hristov has been a revelation in front of goal, netting eight times already this season, and his partnership with Luka Fajfric offers genuine hope for the visitors. With both teams desperate for points and possessing attacking players capable of making the difference, this encounter has all the ingredients for an entertaining and closely-fought affair.
Tactical Preview
Lyn vs Strømmen - live score, predicted lineups and H2H stats
Formation & Key Matchups
Raufoss 4-3-3
Ole Petter Berget has favoured a 4-3-3 formation since taking charge, looking to utilise the pace and width provided by Rafik Zekhnini and Markus Aanesland on the flanks. The system relies heavily on the defensive solidity of Alexander Achinioti-Jönsson and Erik Frøysa at centre-back, with the Swedish international bringing valuable experience from his time in the Canadian Premier League with Forge FC. In midfield, the trio of Emil Sildnes, Torje Naustdal, and the promising young talent David de Ornelas are tasked with controlling the tempo and providing service to the front three. The key tactical battle will be how Raufoss cope with Strømmen's direct approach, particularly the aerial threat posed by Hristov and the physical presence of Fajfric. Berget will likely instruct his full-backs, Jørgen Vedal Sjøl and Nicolai Fremstad, to push high and support the wingers, but this could leave space in behind for Strømmen's counter-attacking players to exploit.
Strømmen 3-5-2
The visitors have typically deployed a 3-5-2 formation under their caretaker managers, looking to pack the midfield and hit teams on the break with their pacy front two. The back three of Maximilian Balatoni, Sindre Engja Rindal, and Simon Sharif provides a solid defensive foundation, while the wing-backs, Marcus Paulsen and Cameron Crestani, offer width and attacking thrust. In central midfield, the combination of Simen Heggdal Beck and Kodjo Somesi has proven effective in breaking up opposition play and transitioning quickly from defence to attack. The tactical flexibility of Deni Dashaev, who can operate as a number 10 or drop deeper to dictate play, gives Strømmen an extra dimension. Their approach will likely involve sitting deep, absorbing pressure, and looking to release Hristov and Fajfric into the channels behind Raufoss's advancing full-backs. Set pieces could also prove crucial, with both Balatoni and Rindal posing significant threats from corners and free-kicks.
Critical Vulnerability
The most glaring weakness for both sides lies in their defensive organisation. Raufoss have shipped 31 goals in 13 matches, the second-worst defensive record in the division, and have kept just one clean sheet all season. Their tendency to concede early goals has been particularly damaging, with the team often finding themselves chasing games from the first half. Strømmen, meanwhile, have conceded 33 goals, the worst defensive record in the league, and have also managed only one clean sheet. Their vulnerability from wide areas and inability to deal with crosses into the box has been repeatedly exposed by opponents. With both teams possessing attacking players in good form and both defences looking decidedly shaky, the likelihood of goals at both ends is extremely high. The midfield battle will be crucial in determining who controls the tempo, but given the defensive records on display, it is difficult to envisage either side keeping a clean sheet.
Team News & Squad Status
Raufoss 📉
- Adrian Rogulj (FW) - Leading scorer with 4 goals, in good form and expected to start up front.
- Rafik Zekhnini (FW) - Signed from Odd in March 2026, providing 3 assists and creativity from the right wing.
- Alexander Achinioti-Jönsson (DF) - Swedish centre-back, key defensive presence, signed from Forge FC in February.
- Erik Frøysa (DF) - On loan from Aalesund, solid at the back but returning from a minor knock.
- David de Ornelas (MF) - 17-year-old sensation from HamKam, exciting prospect in midfield.
- Filip Da Silva (FW) - Brazilian forward with 3 goals this season, offers pace and trickery.
- Torjus Engebakken (MF) - Young midfielder signed from Fredrikstad, energetic presence in the engine room.
- Saadiq Faisal Elmi (DF) - Somali defender signed from Moss, adds physicality to the backline.
- Mads Orrhaug Larsen (DF) - 20-year-old centre-back from HamKam, developing well under Berget.
- Emil Sildnes (MF) - Veteran midfielder with 2 assists, provides experience and leadership.
Strømmen 📈
- Nikolai Jakobsen Hristov (FW) - Top scorer with 8 goals, the main threat and penalty taker.
- Luka Fajfric (FW) - Second top scorer with 4 goals, strong physical presence up front.
- Deni Dashaev (MF) - Chief creator with 5 assists, signed from Start, pivotal to attacking play.
- Kodjo Somesi (MF) - 3 assists this season, dynamic midfielder who breaks up play effectively.
- Cameron Crestani (MF) - Australian midfielder with 2 assists, adds creativity and set-piece quality.
- Maximilian Balatoni (DF) - Centre-back from Lillestrøm II, commanding presence in the air.
- Sindre Engja Rindal (DF) - Experienced defender with 1 goal and 2 assists, threat from set pieces.
- Simon Sharif (DF) - Danish defender, solid reader of the game, important in the back three.
- Tochukwu Joseph (DF) - Nigerian defender signed from Lillestrøm, pace and power at the back.
- Knut-André Skjærstein (GK) - New signing from Kristiansund, expected to start between the sticks.
Predicted Lineups
Raufoss møter Strømmen lørdag – ny prøvespiller med i troppen / Raufoss
| Raufoss 4-3-3 | Strømmen 3-5-2 |
|---|---|
| Anders Klemensson (GK) | Knut-André Skjærstein (GK) |
| Jørgen Vedal Sjøl (RB) | Maximilian Balatoni (CB) |
| Alexander Achinioti-Jönsson (CB) | Sindre Engja Rindal (CB) |
| Erik Frøysa (CB) | Simon Sharif (CB) |
| Nicolai Fremstad (LB) | Marcus Paulsen (RWB) |
| Emil Sildnes (CM) | Cameron Crestani (LWB) |
| Torje Naustdal (CM) | Simen Heggdal Beck (CM) |
| David de Ornelas (CM) | Kodjo Somesi (CM) |
| Rafik Zekhnini (RW) | Deni Dashaev (CAM) |
| Adrian Rogulj (ST) | Nikolai Jakobsen Hristov (ST) |
| Markus Aanesland (LW) | Luka Fajfric (ST) |
Head-to-Head Record
Raufoss Fotball, OBOS-ligaen | Tøffe år: – Jeg har stått i søla og jobbet
The historical rivalry between Raufoss and Strømmen has been remarkably balanced over the years, with both sides enjoying periods of dominance. In their last nine meetings across all competitions, Strømmen have held a slight edge with five victories to Raufoss's two, while two matches have ended in draws. Those encounters have produced a total of 35 goals, averaging an impressive 3.89 goals per game, which suggests that spectators are usually treated to entertaining, high-scoring affairs. The most recent clash came in a pre-season friendly on 7 March 2026, where Raufoss ran out comfortable 3-0 winners at the NAMMO Stadion, a result that will give the home side confidence heading into this league encounter. However, competitive fixtures between these two have often been tighter and more fiercely contested, with neither side willing to give an inch in the battle for crucial points.
Looking deeper into the head-to-head statistics, both teams have found the net in 78% of their recent encounters, with both teams scoring (BTTS) occurring in seven of the last nine matches. Over 2.5 goals has landed in six of those nine fixtures, further underlining the attacking nature of this fixture. Raufoss have managed to keep just one clean sheet in this period, while Strømmen have also recorded only one shutout. The home advantage has not been as decisive as one might expect, with Raufoss winning just two of their last five home meetings against Strømmen. Interestingly, the last competitive league meeting between these sides in the 2025 season ended in a 2-2 draw, a result that bears a striking resemblance to our prediction for this encounter. With both teams desperate for points and possessing attacking players in good form, another goal-laden draw appears to be the most likely outcome.
Key Players Comparison
Adrian Rogulj
Raufoss | FW | 4 Goals
The home side's leading marksman has been a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season. Rogulj's movement off the ball and clinical finishing in the box make him the primary threat for Raufoss. His ability to hold up play and bring others into the game will be crucial against Strømmen's back three.
Nikolai Jakobsen Hristov
Strømmen | FW | 8 Goals
The division's most prolific scorer among the bottom-half teams, Hristov has been a revelation this season. His combination of pace, power, and composure in front of goal makes him a constant danger. Raufoss's centre-backs will need to be at their very best to keep him quiet.
Rafik Zekhnini
Raufoss | RW | 3 Assists
The former Odd winger brings top-flight experience and genuine quality to the Raufoss attack. Zekhnini's dribbling ability and delivery from wide areas can unlock even the most stubborn defences. His battle with Strømmen's left wing-back Cameron Crestani will be fascinating.
Deni Dashaev
Strømmen | CAM | 5 Assists
The creative heartbeat of the Strømmen side, Dashaev's vision and passing range have been instrumental in their attacking play. Signed from Start in the winter transfer window, he has quickly established himself as the team's most important player behind the strikers.
The individual matchups across the pitch will likely determine the outcome of this encounter. In attack, the battle between Raufoss's Rogulj and Zekhnini against Strømmen's back three will be crucial. Rogulj's intelligent movement could exploit the gaps between Balatoni, Rindal, and Sharif, particularly if the wing-backs push too high up the pitch. Conversely, Hristov and Fajfric's physicality and pace will test the mobility of Achinioti-Jönsson and Frøysa. In midfield, the contest between the youthful energy of de Ornelas and the experienced savvy of Beck and Somesi could swing the game either way. The Norwegian youngster has shown flashes of brilliance but may struggle against the physicality and tactical discipline of the Strømmen midfield duo. Finally, the set-piece battle could prove decisive, with both teams possessing players who are dangerous from dead-ball situations. Rindal and Balatoni are significant threats for Strømmen, while Achinioti-Jönsson and Frøysa offer aerial presence for the home side.
The Managers
Ole Petter Berget
Berget was thrust into the Raufoss hot seat on 27 May 2026 following the dismissal of Australian coach Kasey Wehrman, who had managed just 0.17 points per game across six matches. The 42-year-old Norwegian, who had previously served as an assistant coach at the club, knows the NAMMO Stadion and its surroundings intimately. His appointment was seen as a move to bring stability and a return to the club's traditional values of hard work, organisation, and attacking football. Berget has favoured a 4-3-3 formation since taking charge, looking to get the best out of the club's young talents while relying on the experience of players like Sildnes and Zekhnini. His man-management skills have been praised by those within the club, and he has worked hard to rebuild confidence in a squad that had been badly shaken by a run of heavy defeats.
However, Berget's tenure has not been without its challenges. Raufoss have continued to struggle defensively, conceding 17 goals in his five matches in charge, and the team has managed just one victory during that period. The former coach will be acutely aware that his side cannot afford to keep shipping goals at such an alarming rate if they are to climb the table. Against Strømmen, Berget will likely look to tighten things up at the back while still encouraging his attacking players to express themselves. He knows that a win in this fixture would not only provide a vital three points but also a significant psychological boost for a squad that has been starved of confidence. The pressure is on, but Berget's familiarity with the club and its players could prove to be the decisive factor.
Marcus Ericson & Svein Roger Pettersen
Strømmen find themselves in the unusual position of being managed by a caretaker duo after Jens Wedeborg was sacked on 28 May 2026 following a dismal run of results that left the club rooted to the bottom of the table. Marcus Ericson and Svein Roger Pettersen, both club stalwarts with deep connections to Strømmen, stepped in to steady the ship and have already shown signs of improvement. Their most significant achievement to date was guiding the team to a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Moss, a result that lifted the club off the foot of the table and provided a much-needed injection of belief. The duo have opted for a pragmatic 3-5-2 formation, focusing on defensive solidity and quick counter-attacks, a approach that has yielded better results than Wedeborg's more expansive style.
Ericson and Pettersen face a difficult balancing act. They must continue to shore up a defence that has conceded 33 goals this season, the worst record in the division, while also finding ways to get the best out of their attacking talents, particularly Hristov and Dashaev. Their lack of managerial experience at this level is a concern, but their knowledge of the club and its players is invaluable. They have already shown a willingness to make bold decisions, dropping underperforming players and giving opportunities to younger members of the squad. Against Raufoss, they will likely look to frustrate the home side and hit them on the break, knowing that a point would be a valuable result in the context of their season. The duo will be desperate to extend their unbeaten run and prove that they are capable of guiding the club to safety.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 1.65
This is the standout selection for this fixture. Both Raufoss and Strømmen have defensive records that can only be described as catastrophic, with the two worst defences in the OBOS-ligaen conceding 31 and 33 goals respectively. Raufoss have kept just one clean sheet all season, while Strømmen have managed the same paltry return. At the other end, both teams possess genuine attacking threats: Rogulj and Zekhnini for the home side, and the prolific Hristov and creative Dashaev for the visitors. The head-to-head record strongly supports this pick, with both teams finding the net in 78% of their last nine meetings. Given the desperation for points and the likelihood of an open, end-to-end game, BTTS looks like a near-certainty at odds that still offer decent value.
Odds: 1.75
The statistics overwhelmingly point towards a high-scoring encounter. The last nine meetings between these sides have averaged 3.89 goals per game, with over 2.5 goals landing in six of those nine fixtures. Raufoss's home matches this season have averaged 3.50 goals, while Strømmen's away fixtures have averaged 3.83 goals. Both teams are in desperate need of a win, which should lead to an open and attacking contest rather than a cagey affair. With the defensive frailties on display and the attacking talent available to both managers, this match has all the hallmarks of a goal-fest. The 1.75 on offer represents excellent value for a bet that has landed in the majority of recent encounters between these teams.
Odds: 3.40
While both teams desperately need a win, the reality is that neither side has shown the consistency or defensive solidity required to close out a game. Raufoss have drawn just once in 13 matches this season, but their inability to defend a lead has cost them dearly on multiple occasions. Strømmen, meanwhile, have drawn twice and have shown a resilience under their caretaker managers that was missing earlier in the campaign. The last competitive league meeting between these two ended in a 2-2 draw, and with both teams likely to score but neither capable of keeping a clean sheet, another share of the spoils looks a distinct possibility. The 3.40 on offer is generous given the circumstances and represents a solid value play for those looking for a higher-odds selection.
Odds: 13.00
Our model predicts a 2-2 draw, and the 13.00 on offer is an attractive price for a correct score bet. Both teams have the attacking firepower to find the net twice, with Raufoss averaging 1.83 goals per game at home and Strømmen netting 1.50 goals per game on their travels. At the same time, both defences are more than generous enough to concede a pair of goals. The 2-2 scoreline has occurred in two of the last five meetings between these sides, and the tactical setups suggest another evenly-matched contest. For those looking to take a punt on the exact score, 2-2 offers the perfect combination of probability and value.
Odds: 2.10
The Strømmen striker has been in sensational form this season, netting eight goals in 13 appearances and establishing himself as one of the most dangerous forwards in the division. His pace, power, and clinical finishing make him a constant threat, and against a Raufoss defence that has conceded 31 goals in 13 games, he will fancy his chances of adding to his tally. Hristov has scored in five of his last eight appearances and has a knack for finding the net in crucial moments. At 2.10, the odds are shorter than we would like for a speculative bet, but his form and the opposition's defensive record make this a selection with a strong probability of success.
📊 Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
Our prediction of a 2-2 draw is based on a comprehensive analysis of both teams' form, tactical setups, and the historical head-to-head record between these two sides. Raufoss and Strømmen are the two worst defensive teams in the OBOS-ligaen, conceding a combined 64 goals in 26 matches, which makes a clean sheet for either side almost unthinkable. At the same time, both teams possess enough attacking quality to trouble the opposition's backline. Raufoss have scored 16 goals this season, with Rogulj, Zekhnini, and Da Silva all capable of finding the net, while Strømmen have netted 15 times, led by the prolific Hristov and supported by Fajfric and Dashaev. The tactical battle is likely to be an open, end-to-end affair, with both managers prioritising attack over defence in a desperate bid for three points.
The home advantage for Raufoss could prove crucial, but their record at the NAMMO Stadion this season has been patchy at best, with just one win from six home matches. Strømmen, meanwhile, have shown signs of life under their caretaker managers and will be buoyed by their recent victory over Moss. The psychological factor cannot be underestimated: a draw would be a better result for the visitors than the home side, which could lead to Raufoss pushing for a winner and leaving themselves exposed at the back. Ultimately, we expect both teams to score twice, with the match ending in a entertaining 2-2 draw that does little to ease the relegation fears of either set of supporters. For those looking to place a wager, the BTTS and Over 2.5 Goals markets offer the best combination of value and probability.
Key Insights & Statistics
- Raufoss have conceded 31 goals in 13 matches, the second-worst defensive record in the OBOS-ligaen.
- Strømmen have shipped 33 goals in 13 games, the worst defensive record in the division.
- Both teams have kept just one clean sheet each in the entire 2026 season.
- The last nine head-to-head meetings have averaged 3.89 goals per game.
- Both teams have scored in 78% of their last nine encounters (BTTS in 7/9).
- Over 2.5 goals has landed in 6 of the last 9 meetings between these sides.
- Nikolai Jakobsen Hristov has scored 8 goals in 13 appearances for Strømmen this season.
- Adrian Rogulj leads Raufoss with 4 goals, while Rafik Zekhnini has provided 3 assists.
- Raufoss have won just one of their last five home matches this season.
- Strømmen have won two of their last five matches under caretaker managers Ericson and Pettersen.
- The last competitive league meeting between these two ended in a 2-2 draw in the 2025 season.
- Raufoss average 1.83 goals scored per game at home, while Strømmen average 1.50 away.
- Strømmen's Deni Dashaev is the league's top assist provider among bottom-half teams with 5 assists.
- Raufoss have lost 6 of their last 8 matches, winning just once in that period.
- The match is scheduled for 18:00 CET on Friday, 3 July 2026 at the NAMMO Stadion.
Conclusion
This encounter between Raufoss and Strømmen is shaping up to be one of the most important matches of the 2026 OBOS-ligaen season for both clubs. With neither side able to afford a defeat in their battle against relegation, the tension and stakes will be sky-high at the NAMMO Stadion. Raufoss, under the guidance of Ole Petter Berget, will be desperate to turn their season around and give their home supporters something to cheer about. The arrival of Zekhnini and the form of Rogulj give them genuine hope, but their defensive vulnerabilities remain a significant concern. If they can tighten up at the back and play to their attacking strengths, they have every chance of securing a vital three points.
Strømmen, buoyed by their recent victory over Moss and the improved performances under caretaker managers Marcus Ericson and Svein Roger Pettersen, will travel to Raufoss with confidence. The presence of Hristov, one of the division's most lethal strikers, and the creative brilliance of Dashaev means they are always capable of hurting the opposition. However, their defensive record is even worse than Raufoss's, and they will need to show a level of organisation and discipline that has been sorely lacking for much of the season. A point would be a valuable result, but they will also sense an opportunity to claim all three against a side that has been equally fragile.
Our prediction of a 2-2 draw reflects the evenly-matched nature of these two struggling sides and the likelihood of goals at both ends. Both teams have the attacking talent to score twice but lack the defensive resilience to keep a clean sheet. For bettors, the BTTS market at 1.65 and Over 2.5 Goals at 1.75 represent the most logical selections, while the 2-2 correct score at 13.00 offers an enticing long-shot opportunity. Whatever the outcome, this promises to be an entertaining and emotionally charged encounter that will have a significant bearing on the relegation picture as the season progresses. Expect goals, drama, and plenty of nervy moments at both ends of the pitch.
