Sarpsborg 08 have a solid base to build from
Christian Michelsen took over at Sarpsborg 08 on the 26th June 2024 and since then, he has moulded them into a tough, defensively sound unit who have managed to pinch results from bigger, better sides. They have done this by setting up in a compact, structured way, keeping their tempo under control and always maintaining enough cover in defence. It’s a formula that works perfectly for this club, who don’t have the individual talent to blow any of their opponents away on any given day, but they are an excellent collective that have enough grit and determination to grind out results.
For more insight, our Sarpsborg 08 vs FK Haugesund prediction points to how this tactical consistency makes Sarpsborg 08 tough to beat, even when their attack is not firing on all cylinders.
The last 5 league results for Sarpsborg 08 have seen them draw 3, lose 1 and win 1. Their latest outing was a hard-fought 1-1 draw at home to Bryne, following a 1-1 away draw to Fredrikstad and a stunning 2-1 away win over Bodoe/Glimt just 24 hours prior.
In addition to their recent success on the road, their home record in Eliteserien 2025 has been inconsistent, with 1 win, 2 draws and 2 defeats from 5 matches. However, their defensive numbers at their own ground are better, with 6 goals conceded (1.20 per game).
Daniel Seland Karlsbakk has been the saviour for Sarpsborg 08 in recent weeks, netting 2 goals in his last 5 appearances and providing the cutting edge up front.
FK Haugesund are in a sorry state
Toni Korkeakunnas took the reins at FK Haugesund on the 27th May 2025 and hasn’t been able to spark any sort of revival at the club, with the side still in disarray and in search of an identity. They have lost 4 and drawn 1 of their 5 league matches since his appointment, culminating in a 0-4 defeat at the hands of Bodoe/Glimt, following a 0-4 loss to Sandefjord and a confidence-boosting 0-0 draw with Kristiansund BK.
This Sarpsborg 08 vs FK Haugesund preview suggests that Haugesund are currently unable to find a reliable goalscorer or establish any stability throughout the team, making this fixture especially difficult for them.
No player has really stepped up to the plate for Haugesund during this period, as their attack continues to be blunt. The visitors are in a battle in 16th, but this trip to Sarpsborg is not going to make life any easier.
FK Haugesund have scored just 3 times away from home in Eliteserien 2025 and have struggled to be a threat on their travels. They have lost 6 from 6 on their trips this season, which is a key detail in any Sarpsborg 08 vs FK Haugesund prediction.
Sarpsborg 08 should have the quality to take all 3 points
Sarpsborg 08 are the clear and obvious favourites here at 1.28, with Haugesund sitting on the other side of the spectrum at 7.70. Sarpsborg 08 have been in mixed form of late, so the bookmakers may have overestimated them a little. However, Haugesund have been poor on the road throughout the 2025 Eliteserien season.
The contrast in style between these two sides could work in Sarpsborg 08’s favour on Sunday, as their structured and disciplined style could frustrate a more free-flowing and chaotic FK Haugesund, who will be punished when they are caught out of position. According to our Sarpsborg 08 vs FK Haugesund prediction, the home side’s defensive solidity is likely to be the difference-maker.
The Under 2.5 Goals market will be tempting for some, as both of these sides have low average goals per-game records. The 2-2 draw in Eliteserien 2024 is the most recent clash between the two in this fixture, and considering Haugesund have failed to win in their last 2 visits to Sarpsborg 08, the home side will be looking to add another win to their record against the 16th-placed side on Sunday. For those interested in Sarpsborg 08 vs FK Haugesund odds, this fixture could present value on the home win and a low-scoring match.
For punters looking for guidance, the best Sarpsborg 08 vs FK Haugesund betting tips highlight the home team's strong defensive numbers and the visitors' struggles on the road.
