Viking vs Brann - Eliteserien

When Viking and Brann clash at the home ground on April 18, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a Eliteserien fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. Real Madrid vs Fiorentina: Line-ups, stats and preview for pre-season clash.

Viking head into the contest positioned 2nd in the Eliteserien standings, while Brann arrive sitting 8th. The hosts have been imperious, WDWLW in their last five underpinning an elite win rate of 75% that marks them out as genuine contenders. Brann travel in decent nick, LLDWW in their last five and a win rate of 40% this season. Where Viking have built their campaign on solidity, Brann have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. Dusan Vlahovic followed up his hat-trick on Monday by completing the comeback to leave Fenerbahce four points behind Galatasaray, who snatched a late winner at Basaksehir on Friday.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Viking may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Brann have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. His passing display at the World Cup was yet more evidence of his suitability for City and the possession-heavy style Maresca favours.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer Amin Chiakha, with 12 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. Meanwhile, Ajax's new striker Tolu Arokodare continued his strong start by lashing in a fourth goal in three games in their 4-0 victory away to Telstar.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. Given the balance of the numbers, Viking should have enough to edge it — a 3-2 victory looks the most likely outcome. Whatever the outcome, the Eliteserien fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. A more central role appears likely given the sale of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and the anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered by Amadou Onana at the World Cup.