Lillestrøm SK and Tromsø IL faced off in a clash ahead of Matchday 12 of the Eliteserien, with the away team emerging victorious with three points. The home side opted for a 3-5-2 formation, while Tromsø IL displayed a flexible 3-4-3 formation that saw some variations throughout the match. Both teams had their fair share of opportunities, but it was only Tromsø IL who managed to find the back of the net. Through Mai Traore, they managed to capitalise on a quick regaining of possession near the opposition’s box right after the half-time break.
Ratings:
- A1 – Very good, could play higher
- A2 – Strong potential to play higher
- B1 – Good, strong player at level
- B2 – Potential to be a strong player at level
- C – Average for the level, rewatch
- D – Below average in this match
Sakarias Opsahl
Player Profile:
- Nationality: Norwegian
- Age: 23
- Date of birth: 17/07/1999
- Current club: Tromsø IL
- Career: Vålerenga, Ullensaker/Kisa IL (L), Tromsø IL
- Position: Central Midfielder
- Preferred foot: Right
Sakarias Opsahl has been at the club since the 2020 campaign and has played a key role in helping the club achieve promotion to the Eliteserien during that season. Since then, he has firmly established himself in Tromsø IL’s starting XI, primarily featuring as a right-central midfielder. Within their formation, Opsahl takes on the important responsibility of being a playmaker from deep midfield, positioned just ahead of Tromsø’s back-three line. However, he also possesses the freedom to venture into different areas of the midfield, occasionally positioning himself closer to the sidelines depending on the availability of open space. Besides, he sometimes also approaches the final third when presented with the chance. Overall, Opsahl demonstrates excellent spatial awareness and a strong sense of positioning, effectively utilising the free spaces surrounding him.
Standing at 1.87m tall, Opsahl possesses an impressive stature and muscular build. However, in addition to these physical attributes, he also exhibits good acceleration and sprint speed, which he can maintain over long distances, as well as excellent stamina. Furthermore, Opsahl demonstrates good balance and agility, particularly noticeable in his ability to execute body turns both with and without the ball.
On the ball, Sakarias Opsahl showcased an impressive performance, standing out among all the players involved in the match. The 23-year-old displays exceptional ball control, technique, and excellent receiving skills. His outstanding vision and decision-making abilities enable him to excel in the playmaker role within Tromsø’s formation. Opsahl primarily relies on short passes, quick combinations, and medium-ranged passes between the lines, demonstrating great variation in his distribution. His ability to break opponents’ lines with quick passes proved instrumental in setting up his teammates in dangerous positions. Moreover, he maintains composure even when under pressure, both in his passing and dribbling. Opsahl’s dribbling skills are also noteworthy, as he effortlessly carries out progressive runs, successfully bypassing opponents when necessary. Additionally, he demonstrates proficiency with his weaker foot when the situation demands it. The combination of these traits allows Opsahl to excel in his role and significantly impact matches at the current level of football in which he is competing.
Assessing Opsahl’s defensive qualities in this match proved challenging, as he was not heavily involved in defensive actions or duels. However, he demonstrated good recovery from his offensive ventures and displayed a strong sense of defensive positioning. Positioned in front of Tromsø’s back three, he often sought to apply quick pressure on opponents and occasionally moved slightly out of position to create interception opportunities. While lacking a bit of aggressiveness, his physical traits suggest he could be more dominant in aerial duels. On a positive note, Opsahl exhibited good leadership skills throughout the match, consistently communicating with his teammates.
Rating – A1
I believe Sakarias Opsahl could already be playing at a higher level than the Eliteserien. His exceptional on-the-ball skills set him apart from other midfielders at the current level of competition. While his defensive abilities require further assessment, it is clear that there is room for improvement, particularly in terms of his body usage and aggressiveness. Based on his performance in this match, a move to a good club in the Belgian Pro League or the Eredivisie could prove very beneficial for his development.