Molde vs Aalesund - Eliteserien

The Eliteserien returns to the home ground on September 19, 2026, where Molde and Aalesund will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Chelsea could do with a morale-boosting win when they face AC Milan in Jakarta.

In the Eliteserien table, Molde currently occupy 3rd and Aalesund sit 15th, and the context adds genuine weight to what is already an intriguing fixture. Molde have been picking up results at a respectable clip, WWWWL over their last five with a season win rate of 55%. On the road the visitors have looked devoid of inspiration, LWLDD in their last five and a win rate of 15% that makes for sobering reading. Where Molde have built their campaign on solidity, Aalesund have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. Larson has not visited Victory Lane since May last year but remains firmly in championship contention, sitting eighth in the standings as the NASCAR Chase approaches in September.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Molde favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Aalesund are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. Andoni Iraola, like Luis Enrique, is a coach who demands that his players press high.

The fixture features no shortage of talent, and the league's top marksman Amin Chiakha — 12 goals this term — will be one to watch. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. The reigning champions made it four wins from four in the league and are yet to concede a goal in their title defence.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. On balance, Molde look well-placed to claim all three points, and a 3-2 home win would not come as a surprise. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Eliteserien picture. Manchester City will begin another Premier League season with major uncertainty hanging over the club after league chief executive Richard Masters admitted the long-awaited verdict on their financial case has taken longer than expected.