Notodden vs Brattvåg - 2. Division - Group 1

A fascinating 2. Division - Group 1 chapter awaits on August 15, 2026 when Notodden take on Brattvåg at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

Both Notodden and Brattvåg will be eager to build momentum when they meet in 2. Division - Group 1. Notodden have been picking up results at a respectable clip, WLWLL over their last five with a season win rate of 50%. Away from home the visitors have thrived, WLWWL over their last five and a win rate of 60% marking them as genuine road warriors. Where Notodden have built their campaign on solidity, Brattvåg have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. The Saudi Pro League side have now placed a €45 million package on the table, while Watkins himself is understood to be open to making the move.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Notodden will look to impose their style on home soil, while Brattvåg are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. After the loss, a lot of questions began to be raised about their different approach to preparing for the game.

Game-changers are scattered across both line-ups, and the contest may well be decided by which side's match-winners deliver on the day. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Manchester United have been warned about selling Marcus Rashford to a Premier League rival this summer, as uncertainty remains over the forward's future.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 2-2 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the 2. Division - Group 1 standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.