Varbergs BoIS FC
- Varbergs are a direct, transition-heavy team under Victor Salwén who has encouraged his players to play at a high tempo, to press in numbers when they lose the ball and to play at speed in the wide areas.
- They have focused on youth integration and have added a new physical presence in towering striker Shanyder Borgelin, who will likely be the focal point of their attacking third play on Monday.
- Varbergs have had a somewhat mixed preseason record with two wins and three defeats, but they have been solid at the back and kept two clean sheets in friendlies and cup ties.
Östersunds FK
- Östersunds FK are a compact, organized unit who play a 3-5-2 system under Nemanja Miljanović.
- The new manager has focused on building the team from the back up, which has included a focus on defensive discipline, coordinated pressing and overloads in the centre of the field.
- Östersunds FK have shown themselves to be a steady, but unspectacular team in their preseason preparations.
- The return of goalkeeper Tyree Griffiths from injury should provide stability at the back that the team have been missing and should provide the whole team with confidence.
Head-to-Head
Varbergs BoIS FC have a slight edge in recent head-to-head results, winning two and drawing one of the last four Superettan matches against Östersunds FK .
Key Players
- The Swedish club have added new energy up front with the signing of James Kirby, who will look to make a difference with his work-rate and all-round ability.
- They will look to use their aerial prowess, particularly from set pieces, where captain Gustav Broman is an expert.
- The return of goalkeeper Tyree Griffiths from injury should provide stability at the back that the team have been missing and should provide the whole team with confidence.
Betting Insights
- Punters can get the hosts at 2.25 for this one, which seems a good price considering they have the home-field advantage and have had more success in recent seasons in this fixture.
- Given the solid defensive record of both teams in preseason and Varbergs’ ability to shut out their opponents, we’re backing the home side to get the win and for both teams not to score.
Prediction
- We’re backing the home side to get the win and for both teams not to score.
- The weather in Varberg is supposed to be cool, but clear, with spring conditions providing a perfect setting for the Superettan opener.
