Start - KFUM

James Ampofo leads the line for Start as they return to Eliteserien action on 30 August 2026 at Sparebanken Norge Arena Kristiansand. The forward will be tasked with sparking a revival after a challenging run in the league, which included recent home defeats to Fredrikstad and Viking. While their cup victory over Flekkefjord provided a morale boost, the side needs to translate that momentum into a more consistent domestic display. With Mikael Ugland and Eirik Schulze expected to anchor the midfield, the hosts will look to control the tempo and overcome the disappointment of their recent league form.

KFUM arrive in Kristiansand aiming to build on a solid period that saw them take points from Lillestroem and secure a victory against Sandefjord. Despite significant injury concerns affecting Robin Rasch, Magnus Retsius Groedem, Emil Oedegaard, and Fredrik Tobias Berglie, the visitors remain a resilient unit. Bilal Njie and Julian Bakkeli Gonstad will spearhead the attack, hoping to exploit any gaps in the home defense. Having already defeated Start earlier this season, KFUM will be confident in their ability to navigate this matchday 19 encounter despite their depleted squad.