Storhamar Elite (w) vs Byasen Elite (w) on 20 January
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between two of the elite teams in the Women’s Ligaen 1 on January 20th, as Storhamar Elite (w) hosts Byåsen Elite (w) at the storied venue of Storhamar Arena. The stakes could not be higher: both sides are locked in a tight race for dominance, with the top positions and European qualification on the line. With a passionate fan base behind them and a hunger to prove themselves, the question remains: which team will emerge victorious in this crucial showdown?
Storhamar Elite (w): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Storhamar Elite (w) enters this match with momentum firmly on their side, having secured four wins in their last five outings. Their recent form is built on a robust defensive structure and a fast-paced counter-attacking style that has consistently troubled their opponents. Head coach, Kjetil Strand, has orchestrated a tactical setup that blends intensity in transition with discipline in defense, particularly focusing on preventing fast breaks through a high press and organizing their defensive blocks to shut down the middle. Their 6-0 defense, often forming a solid wall, requires precise and intelligent off-ball movement from the attackers to break it down.
In attack, Storhamar leans on quick ball movement, utilizing the wings to exploit open spaces and generate 1v1 opportunities. Their playmaking comes through sharp passes from the backcourt, with playmaker Henny Reistad frequently dictating the tempo and creating angles for outside shots or dynamic pivot play. Storhamar's counter-attacks have been particularly lethal, with an average of 3.5 fast-break goals per match, showcasing their ability to capitalize on opponent turnovers.
Key Player: The standout player for Storhamar in recent weeks has been their left-back, Emily Eide. Her combination of powerful shooting and creative passing has made her the engine of the team’s attack. If Eide can find her rhythm, she will be pivotal in breaking Byåsen’s defense and stretching their coverages. However, Storhamar will be missing the services of their star goalkeeper, Ingrid Sjøl, who has been ruled out due to injury. This may leave the team slightly vulnerable in the goalkeeping department, with backup keeper Caroline Dreier stepping into the limelight.
Byåsen Elite (w): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Byåsen Elite (w) enters this clash with a slightly more inconsistent form, registering three wins and two losses in their last five matches. The Trondheim-based squad, however, has shown resilience in the face of adversity, thanks in large part to their attacking firepower and ability to play well under pressure. Byåsen’s primary tactical system revolves around a 5-1 defensive setup, which places the emphasis on aggressive individual marking, especially on the central players. Their defense often presses high, forcing errors from opponents in the middle third of the court.
Offensively, Byåsen relies on their well-balanced backcourt, which includes a lethal right-back pairing and fast, accurate wing play. Their transition game is rapid, with goal-scoring opportunities frequently coming off the back of their high defensive press. Byåsen’s efficiency in the attacking zone has been impressive, boasting an average of 23 goals per game with a shooting accuracy of 72%, placing them in the top tier of Ligaen’s offensive teams. The attacking rhythm is often set by the influential playmaker, Camilla Herrem, whose quick passes and precise movements create overloads in the defensive structures of opponents.
Key Player: Camilla Herrem is undoubtedly the heartbeat of Byåsen’s offense. Her vision, pace, and ability to orchestrate fast breaks make her a constant threat. On the other end, goalkeeper Kaja Sæthre has been outstanding this season, making crucial saves at key moments and boasting a save percentage of 42%, a statistic that places her among the league’s best. If Sæthre can continue to perform at a high level, Byåsen will be in a strong position to control the tempo of the match.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
Recent encounters between these two sides have been tight and highly competitive, with both teams sharing the spoils in their last five meetings. However, there is a trend towards high-scoring affairs, with each team averaging 25+ goals per game in their head-to-heads. The most recent match in October 2025 saw Storhamar edge out Byåsen 28-26 in a match that featured dramatic back-and-forth swings and individual brilliance on both sides. Historically, home advantage has played a crucial role, with Storhamar winning 4 out of their last 5 games on home turf against Byåsen, making this a psychologically significant factor for both teams. Byåsen will be eager to break that pattern and prove they can win in hostile territory.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The match is likely to hinge on a few critical duels across the court. The first key battle will be in the goalkeeping area, where Kaja Sæthre will face off against Caroline Dreier, filling in for the injured Ingrid Sjøl. Both goalkeepers will need to make key stops to give their teams the upper hand, and whichever side can secure more fast-break goals from turnovers will have a significant advantage.
Another crucial area will be the battle in the center of the court between Byåsen’s defense and Storhamar’s attacking pivots. Storhamar’s pivot, Emilie Solberg, has the ability to make strong physical plays and create space for others in the attack, but Byåsen’s defense will look to disrupt her and limit her opportunities to receive the ball in dangerous positions. The play of Byåsen's right-winger, Andrea Austmo, against Storhamar’s left-back defense, which has shown vulnerabilities, will also be a decisive match-up. If Austmo can exploit the edges and create numerical advantages, Byåsen will have a potent attacking force at their disposal.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Given the high stakes and tactical nuances, this match is poised to be a tightly contested affair. Both teams have the attacking power to overwhelm their opponents, but defense will likely be the deciding factor. Storhamar’s high-pressure defense and their ability to counter quickly will test Byåsen’s resolve, while Byåsen’s aggressive pressing game will look to stifle the flow of Storhamar’s transition play. The loss of Ingrid Sjøl is a significant blow to Storhamar, as it weakens their defense in key moments, making Byåsen’s sharp shooting even more dangerous.
Expect a match with intense back-and-forth action, where every turnover and transition will be pivotal. With both teams needing the win to stay competitive in the title race, the outcome could easily go either way. However, given the home advantage and Storhamar’s superior overall cohesion in recent weeks, they are slight favorites in this matchup. Prediction: Storhamar Elite (w) 27-25 Byåsen Elite (w).
Final Thoughts
This match will be a test of both teams’ tactical depth, individual brilliance, and resilience under pressure. While Storhamar has the edge in recent form and home advantage, Byåsen’s attacking potency and defensive aggression mean they cannot be written off. The game will ultimately come down to which team can execute their game plan more effectively and capitalize on key moments. One sharp question remains: Can Byåsen disrupt Storhamar’s home dominance, or will Storhamar prove too strong on their home court?
