Sandnes ULF vs Raufoss - 1. Division

The history between Sandnes ULF and Raufoss lends this 1. Division fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at the home ground on June 27, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. 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.

In the 1. Division table, Sandnes ULF currently occupy 12th and Raufoss sit 16th, and the context adds genuine weight to what is already an intriguing fixture. Sandnes ULF have blown hot and cold, LDWLL across their last five and a win rate of 31.82% that leaves room for improvement. The visitors have been a mixed bag on the road, WLLLL in their last five and a win rate of 27.27% reflecting their unpredictability. The contrast in attacking output — 1.41 versus 1.18 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Sky Sports columnist Laura Hunter analyses the big talking points from the first round of Women's Super League matches, bringing you closer to the key stories at the heart of the women's game.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Sandnes ULF and Raufoss have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. After the loss, a lot of questions began to be raised about their different approach to preparing for the game.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. The Roma midfielder has been identified as someone who could be the elusive third midfield signing this summer.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Backed by home advantage and superior form, Sandnes ULF ought to prevail — a 2-1 victory looks the logical call. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the 1. Division picture. The Spaniard heading to Barca all but rules out a midfield departure from the Bernabeu and thus United will likely have to look elsewhere.