Start Kristiansand 0–3 Rosenborg | Norwegian Eliteserien | 18 July 2026

A dominant Rosenborg side cruised to a commanding 3‑0 victory over Start Kristiansand at Sparebanken Sør Arena, extending their strong run in the Eliteserien and heaping further pressure on the struggling hosts. The result underlined the gulf in class between a title‑chasing Rosenborg and a Start side fighting to climb away from the relegation zone.

Match Overview

Rosenborg controlled proceedings from the first whistle, with their midfield trio dictating the tempo and cutting off Start’s attempts to build from the back. The visitors opened the scoring midway through the first half when a well‑worked corner found the head of central defender Markus Henriksen, who powered the ball past the helpless home goalkeeper. The goal set the tone for a one‑sided contest.

Key Moments

• 23' – Rosenborg take the lead through a commanding header from Markus Henriksen after a precise delivery from the left.
• 41' – Start’s best chance of the half falls to forward Jonas Braaten, but his close‑range effort is smothered by Rosenborg keeper André Hansen.
• 55' – Rosenborg double their advantage: a swift counter‑attack ends with Ola Selnaes slotting home from the edge of the box.
• 78' – Substitute Noah Holm seals the victory with a composed finish after a defensive mix‑up by Start.

Tactical Story

Rosenborg boss Kjetil Rekdal set his side up in a fluid 4‑3‑3, with full‑backs pushing high to overwhelm Start’s narrow defensive shape. Start, meanwhile, attempted to pack the midfield in a 5‑3‑2 but were repeatedly exposed on the flanks. Rosenborg’s pressing game forced numerous turnovers in dangerous areas, and their ability to transition quickly from defence to attack proved decisive.

Standout Players

• Markus Henriksen – Not only scored the opener but also marshalled the defence with authority, winning every aerial duel.
• Ola Selnaes – A tireless performance in midfield; his goal capped a display of clever movement and sharp passing.
• Noah Holm – Came off the bench to add the third and showed composure well beyond his years.

Impact on the Standings

The victory keeps Rosenborg firmly in the top three, maintaining pressure on league leaders Bodø/Glimt. For Start, the defeat leaves them second from bottom, now four points adrift of safety with a worsening goal difference. Their home form has been a particular concern, having lost four of their last five matches at Sparebanken Sør Arena.