Valerenga were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Frederikstad in their Norwegian top-flight clash on Matchday 12, with Congolese centre-back Kevin Tshiembe featuring throughout the encounter.
The home side endured a difficult start, conceding within the opening minutes of the match.
Frederikstad capitalised on early defensive indecision to take the lead in just the fourth minute, putting Valerenga on the back foot.
Despite the setback, the Oslo-based club responded well, showing composure and determination to regain control as the first half progressed.
Valerenga eventually found their equaliser late in the first half, restoring parity and setting the stage for a competitive second period.
While they had several promising opportunities after the break, the hosts failed to convert their dominance into a decisive goal, leaving them with only a point to show for their efforts.
Tshiembe, a key figure in the back line, delivered a composed performance in defence.
The 26-year-old helped stabilise the team after the early setback, but Frederikstad’s resilience ensured Valerenga could not fully capitalise on their home advantage.
The result leaves Valerenga in 10th place in the Eliteserien standings with 15 points—a position that reflects an inconsistent start to their campaign.
While the newly promoted side has shown flashes of quality, results like this highlight the challenges of maintaining momentum in Norway’s top division.
Though disappointed by the draw, the team remains focused on the bigger objective: securing survival in their first season back at the top level.
“We’re not in the middle of the table, and that’s important. The goal is to keep collecting points and stay in the fight,” said a member of the coaching staff after the match.
The draw may feel like a missed opportunity, but it adds to Valerenga’s ongoing effort to establish themselves in the top tier.
With 18 rounds still to play, consistency and resilience will be crucial as they aim to avoid a relegation battle.
Valerenga now turn their attention to an away fixture against Bryne on Sunday, July 13, where they will face a side led by Christian Landu.
With another test ahead, the squad will look to regroup quickly and aim for all three points in what could prove to be a pivotal match in their season.
