Tromsø vs Lillestrøm Prediction: Both sides will find the net

The upcoming Eliteserien clash at Alfheim Stadion on Sunday promises to be an exciting one as Tromsø IL welcomes Lillestrøm SK. Both teams have been in good form recently, and they will be eager to continue their positive run and secure vital points in the league. Previews, possible starting 11, expert tips, and odds are provided below.

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Tromso's pursuit of the top spot in the Eliteserien remains within reach, as they trail Bodo/Glimt by just eight points with a game in hand. Their remarkable defensive performances have been the key to their improved performance this season, boasting the fewest goals conceded in the league.

However, to mount a serious title challenge, Tromso must also strengthen their attacking prowess, as their goal tally of 23 so far is the lowest among the top seven teams. Scoring goals consistently will be crucial for them to bridge the gap with the league leaders and stay competitive in the title race.

Despite these challenges, Tromso enter the upcoming fixture against Lillestrom with immense confidence, having secured impressive victories in their last two matches, including a notable win against Bodo/Glimt away from home. The team showcased their potential as genuine contenders for the title with that win.

Nonetheless, facing Lillestrom at home poses a tough test for Tromso, as they have not beaten them at their home ground since 2017. This encounter will be a significant moment for Tromso to prove their mettle and strengthen their position in the league standings.

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Lillestrom have been impressive in their recent encounters, showcasing fine form with four wins in their last five Eliteserien matches. Their most recent victory against Ham-Kam was a dominant display, and they head into the upcoming fixture with confidence on their side.

While Lillestrom have been formidable at home, their away performances have been less convincing, evident in their 1-0 loss to struggling Haugesund. To bridge the four-point gap with Tromso, who currently hold the final Europa Conference League qualification spot, Lillestrom will need to maintain their recent winning momentum and secure another victory in this match.

To do so, Simon Mesfin's side might need to adopt a more attacking game plan. Lillestrom has only scored nine of their 32 league goals away from home this season, and they will be eager to improve their offensive output on the road. The 4-3 victory against Valerenga Fotball in May serves as a testament to their capability to score away from home.

A win against Tromso would not only close the gap in the league standings but also send a strong message to their rivals that Lillestrom is a genuine contender for a top-three finish. As the season progresses, Mesfin and his team will be looking to maintain their fine form and continue making their mark in the Eliteserien.

Tromso - Jakob Haugaard, Jostein Gundersen, Casper Oyvann, Christophe Psyche, Niklas Vesterlund, Ruben Jenssen, Sakarias Opsahl, Jens Hjerto-Dahl, Yaw Paintsil, Mai Traore, Vegard Erlien.

Lillestrom - Mads Hedenstad Christiansen, Espen Garnas, Vetle Skjaervik, Vetle Dragsnes, Lars Mogstad Ranger, Ylldren Ibrahimaj, Vebjørn Hoff, Gjermund Asen, Eskil Edh, Tobias Hammer Svendsen, Thomas Lehne Olsen.

Based on the recent form and historical head-to-head record, it seems likely that both Tromso and Lillestrom will find the back of the net in the upcoming match. Both teams have been scoring regularly in their recent games, and they have also been conceding goals, indicating that the match is likely to be an open and attacking affair. The head-to-head history further supports the prediction of both teams scoring, with four of the last five meetings between the two clubs ending with BTTS outcomes. This suggests that matches between Tromso and Lillestrom tend to be high-scoring and competitive, with both teams capable of finding the net. Given Tromso's recent home form and Lillestrom's attacking prowess, it is reasonable to expect the home side to come out victorious in this encounter. However, Lillestrom's ability to score goals means that the match is likely to be closely contested, and both teams are expected to get on the scoresheet.

• BTTS for 1.60 odds
• W1 for 2.30 odds
• Over 2.5 for 1.80 odds