HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Viking FK Ends 34-Year Norwegian Title Drought

BBC Sport •
×

Viking FK secured their first Norwegian league title in 34 years, capping a remarkable season with a 5-1 victory over Valerenga. The win saw them finish one point ahead of Bodo/Glimt, sparking massive celebrations in their home city of Stavanger. It marks a stunning return to the top for a club that was playing in the second tier just seven years ago.

Relegated in 2017 for the first time in three decades, Viking returned to their roots. They focused on local talent and a stable youth academy rather than expensive imports. This rebuild culminated in the 2019 Norwegian Cup win. The club is now celebrating its ninth league title, a triumph that brings the entire Stavanger community together.

Captain Zlatko Tripic has been central to this success. The winger returned to the club in 2018 immediately after their relegation, believing in the project. He scored the penalty that sealed this title and has reached double figures in goals and assists for three straight seasons, a club first. Joint coaches Bjarte Lunde Aarsheim and Morten Jensen guided the team across the line.