Bergerud vs Norsten: The goalkeeper battle

“I’m very excited for this game. It is a lot of fun playing a Nordic battle where there is a little extra prestige between the players. I think there are a lot of players on both teams who want to win a little extra. I think it will be a tough and physical game where neither of the teams are willing to give anything away on the court,” says Aalborg’s Swedish goalkeeper Norsten. 

Kolstad’s Norwegian keeper Bergerud also expects a big clash: 

“It will be an exciting and tough game. We need to be on our highest level to have the possibility to win the game. We are very much looking forward to showing our best side in Trondheim Spektrum. I expect a fast game. Both teams like to run a lot, so we need to fasten the running shoes and get ready.”

With a big, loud arena behind them, Bergerud believes Kolstad have a chance against the Danish team, whom he calls the favourites.

“It will always be a small advantage to play at home, because you can stay at home in your well-known areas and prepare as good as possible. It doesn’t mean that we are the favourites though — I think Aalborg will be that.”

Before the game, Kolstad Håndbold occupy sixth place in group B with four points, while Aalborg are in third with seven points. 

If you ask Norsten, for the Danish top team to stay on their current track, which has seen them record two wins in a row, they need to keep an eye on several standout players from Kolstad.

“I think Simen Lyse has been taking a lot of responsibility and done a really good job. He is a player we need to stop. Also, Simon Jeppsson is for me a player who plays with self-confidence. He has been a good addition for the club, I think.” 

Kolstad were also victorious in the previous round, with the round 6 result representing their second win of the season. As he looks to Kolstad’s next encounter, Bergerud finds the Danish club’s line-up a formidable one. 

“I think there are almost only big players in the squad of Aalborg, so it would be a long list if I had to mention them all. It is always fun to play against someone you know well — everything starts to mean even more.”

When the two teams met in last season’s group phase, Aalborg took all four points. But where are the two teams now?

Both Kolstad Håndball and Aalborg Håndbold secured impressive away wins in round 6 of the Machineseeker EHF Champions League 2024/25. Kolstad beat Szeged in Hungary 29:27, while Aalborg defeated Kielce in Poland 35:28. 

The goalkeeper battle will naturally be an important focus in the upcoming MOTW, and both Norsten and Bergerud have positive words to say about the other. 

“It will be a fun goalkeeper duel against Bergerud. He is a great goalkeeper with a lot of experience. I think this fight will be crucial for the outcome and the two points in Norway,” says 24-year-old Norsten.

30-year-old Bergerud also has some kind words about his opponent:

“Norsten has really been playing good recently. He is a good goalkeeper who has been shining while Niklas Landin has been out with his injury. I’m more excited for the whole game than the internal fight in the goal. The real battle will be between him and our shooters, and me against their shooters,” concludes the Norway national team keeper.

Photos: Henrik Hansen, Eliza Sólya