Vålerenga secures 2-2 draw against Sarpsborg amid club leadership crisis

Vålerenga secured a 2-2 draw against Sarpsborg in the Eliteserien, highlighted by a stoppage-time equalizer from 15-year-old Gabriel Rajkovic. The result provides a brief reprieve for the club following a turbulent week of organizational changes.

In recent days, Vålerenga has faced significant internal upheaval. Sport director Joacim Jonssongir departed the club, and board chairman Søren Eriksen resigned, stating he lacked the necessary support for recent decisions. Additionally, the club sold captain Henrik Bjørdal to Viking for approximately 25 million NOK on the final day of the transfer window. This sale prompted the Norwegian Football Federation to demand an explanation regarding the club's decision-making structure, specifically whether the transfer committee or the member-led club held ultimate sporting authority.

During the match, Sarpsborg initially took the lead through Claus Niyukuri. Sondre Sørli extended the lead for Sarpsborg with a free kick, but Vålerenga fought back with a goal from Petter Strand before Rajkovic’s late equalizer.