Haugesund B produced a thrilling attacking display to defeat Viking B 4-2 in an eight-goal spectacle at the start of the new Norwegian 3.Divisjon season on 11 August 2026. In a match that showcased the depth of talent in both reserve setups, the home side raced into a commanding lead before weathering a late Viking comeback attempt to seal all three points.

A Fast Start from the Home Side

Haugesund B came flying out of the blocks, taking the lead inside the opening ten minutes when striker Jonas Haga converted a low cross from the right. The same combination struck again before the half-hour mark, with Haga’s flicked header leaving the Viking B goalkeeper with no chance. When midfielder Sivert Nilsen curled a free-kick into the top corner just before the break, the hosts looked to be cruising at 3-0.

Viking B responded with renewed purpose after the interval, pulling one back through a well-worked team move finished by Emil Berg. The visitors then set up a tense finale when forward Markus Dahl tapped in from close range in the 72nd minute. But Haugesund B showed their maturity, sealing the win late when substitute Tobias Sletten broke clear on the counter-attack to make it 4-2.

Key Highlights

• Jonas Haga’s brace: The striker proved a constant menace, scoring in the 9th and 28th minutes.
• Free-kick mastery: Sivert Nilsen’s 41st-minute set-piece strike was the pick of the goals.
• Late drama: Viking B twice reduced the deficit but never fully threatened a comeback equaliser.

Season Implications

Haugesund B’s entertaining victory provides an early statement of intent in a competitive 3.Divisjon group. The display of attacking fluidity and resilience will worry their rivals, while Viking B will need to tighten up defensively ahead of their next fixture. For neutrals, this was exactly the kind of open, end-to-end football that makes division football in Norway so compelling.