The Norwegian league is approaching the start of the season, and with the help of Bent Svele, longtime expert on Norway’s TV 2, we take a closer look at the Men’s league. Who will win the league? Which player will stand out?
Bent Svele have worked as a handball expert for TV 2 since 2000. He comments on the Norwegian league, the national teams, and the Champions League/European League. He also cover breaking news relating to Norwegian handball.
Which team will win the league this season and why?
– Kolstad, but they are under strong pressure from Elverum. Kolstad have almost the same squad as last year, when they defeated the likes of Nantes and Magdeburg and won the Norwegian playoffs. Torbjørn Bergerud and Lars Eggen Rismark have been replaced by an equally strong, if not better, duo in Andreas Palicka and Nicolai Neupart.
Which player will stand out?
– Andreas Palicka, Kolstad. If he performs at his level, he will be the standout player in the league. I believe his quality and experience will also be a huge asset for Kolstad in the Champions League.
– I am also curious about Dominik Mathé (Elverum). He has been out with injury for a long time, but showed real class in a recent preseason tournament.
Which player will have his big breakthrough?
– Ciljan Sagosen, Bergen. Sander Sagosen’s younger brother has moved from Charlottenlund in the 1st Division to Bergen this season and will have a much bigger role than he would have had at Kolstad. He trained with Kolstad last season. The 17-year-old is a quick and intelligent player, and I am eager to see if he can carry over the good performances he showed at the Junior World Championship.
Which player, team or event will be the most disappointing?
– It would be a disappointment if Kolstad doesn’t make it to the Champions League knockout stage. It would also be a disappointment if Elverum do not qualify for the European League. These results are important for Norwegian handball.
What are you looking forward to the most?
– I am looking forward to tough and even matchups with Norwegian teams in Europe. There will also be fierce battles at the top in both the men’s and women’s leagues and a close race for the medals.
Photo: Erik Edland / TV 2