Norwegian football has undergone a significant transformation. The era when Rosenborg, the country’s most prominent and successful club, dominated the league consistently is now a thing of the past.
It has been six years since Rosenborg last clinched the Eliteserien title, marking their longest period without a championship since the 1980s.
In their place, new giants have emerged. Bodo/Glimt have established themselves as Norway’s leading team, having secured the league championship three times in the last four years.
Additionally, Bodo’s remarkable performances in European competitions have enabled Norway to surpass Scotland in the co-efficient rankings in recent years.
Currently, Norway stands 12th in the UEFA standings, while Scotland has dropped to 17th, a situation that will influence the allocation of places in future UEFA competitions.
With the aftermath of the Josh Kerr versus Jakob Ingebrigtsen rivalry at the Paris Olympics settled, another clash between Scotland and Norway has been set up nicely in the Conference League qualifiers.
Scotland triumphed over Norway in the 1500m final with Kerr finishing ahead of Ingebrigtsen.
Rosenborg had previously been Norway’s leading team, but their form has dipped lately.
Bodo/Glimt have established themselves as the leading force in Norway, outperforming Celtic in 2022.
Tonight, Kilmarnock will face Tromso at Rugby Park, while St Mirren hosts SK Brann in Paisley. Both matches are significant for the broader context of Scottish football.
Scotland and Norway, with similar populations of around 5.4 million, share many traits. Both nations are regularly involved in discussions regarding a potential breakaway Atlantic League.
Although the existing UEFA framework has its flaws, the financial benefits for clubs like Kilmarnock, St Mirren, Tromso, and Brann can be transformative.
Reaching the group stage of the Conference League ensures a minimum prize of £2.5 million for these clubs.
Furthermore, each victory in the group stage secures an additional £420,000. This is substantial for smaller clubs and would significantly aid in boosting the co-efficient.
This is why these matches are crucial. Competing against teams of comparable stature, especially from a direct rival in the co-efficient rankings, makes it essential for our clubs to excel.
Kilmarnock heads into their match against a Tromso team currently fourth from bottom in the Norwegian league, despite having finished third last season.
McInnes draws parallels between the Scottish and Norwegian leagues.
After his team was eliminated 2-1 on aggregate by Cercle Brugge in the Europa League qualifiers, manager Derek McInnes is urging his players to be daring and aggressive. It’s a situation where fortune favors the bold.
“It’s crucial for the players to realize they belong in this tournament,” stated the Kilmarnock manager.
“Now that we’re in the Conference League, we have to prove we’re capable of staying competitive.”
“The winner of this tie will face either FC Copenhagen or Banik Ostrava, and that draw offers tremendous exposure and opportunities.”
“The players have put in a great effort to reach this stage. We’re facing a team with similar ambitions to advance.”
“We believe we can succeed, and I’m sure Tromso shares the same mindset. It’s vital we deliver a performance that meets our capabilities. I would be disappointed if we didn’t head to Norway next week with a lead.”
Kilmarnock players practice at Rugby Park in preparation for their home leg against Tromso.
Tromso is making its first foray into Europe in a decade. Their last appearance in 2013 saw them reach the Europa League group stage, where they competed against Tottenham.
However, they are currently facing relegation this season. Halfway through their domestic campaign, they sit only two points above the bottom of the table.
Many fans expect Kilmarnock to secure a win in this match, starting with a favorable outcome at home tonight.
When asked how he compares the level of Scottish football to that of Norwegian teams, McInnes responded: “I see many clubs of similar size and there are several similarities.”
“Of course, Rosenborg is an iconic club there, and Bodo/Glimt has been thriving lately. However, it’s tough to evaluate the standards directly.”
“The Norwegian league is quite tactical, similar to many Scandinavian leagues, and features well-coached teams.”
“It has its share of physicality, strength, and fitness. Still, I don’t believe it matches the intensity of our league.”
St Mirren manager Stephen Robinson has lost captain Mark Kerr for the upcoming match against SK Brann.
“There are certainly many quality players, and we’ve seen how Norwegian players have easily transitioned into British leagues over the years.”
Kilmarnock midfielder Brad Lyons emphasized the necessity of taking the initiative and demonstrating more confidence than in their last match against Cercle Brugge.
The Ayrshire team required a late equalizer to secure a 1-1 draw with the Belgians before losing the away match 1-0.
Lyons encouraged his teammates to lay a stronger foundation for next week’s rematch in Norway.
“We must be more self-assured,” asserted the Northern Irish player. “The last encounter was tight and a single mistake cost us the match.”
“We are ready both physically and mentally. We’re feeling good and sharp, and even those not playing look sharp in training.”
“We are in a solid position, but we need to bring it all together on the pitch.”
