Viking Coach Morten Jensen Criticizes Bodø/Glimt Manager Kjetil Knutsen
Viking head coach Morten Jensen says Bodø/Glimt manager Kjetil Knutsen successfully created a negative external image of his squad leading up to the top-of-the-table clash on October 30, 2026. The psychological friction culminated in a 3-2 victory for Bodø/Glimt at Aspmyra stadion, leaving the two Eliteserien contenders deadlocked at the top of the table with six matches remaining, vg.no reported.
The fixture’s underlying hostility stretched back across several weeks of public exchanges. Following the summer transfer window closing, Knutsen labeled Viking’s roster additions a muppet show. Tension escalated further when Bodø/Glimt goalkeeper Nikita Haikin criticized Viking captain Zlatko Tripic for tactical simulation during a match, branding the behavior unacceptable.
Referee Sends Jensen and Knutsen to the Stands
The war of words translated into physical confrontation on the pitch just before halftime. A heavy challenge sparked a face-to-face altercation between Jensen and Knutsen, during which Knutsen pushed down the Viking manager’s cap. Match referee Espen Eskås subsequently issued red cards to both managers, sending them to the stands.
Referee Espen Eskås explained that both coaches exhibited poor behavior that failed to meet the standards expected of Eliteserien leaders. Morten Jensen defended his actions while registering an official protest against the decision through Viking’s front office. Meanwhile, Viking captain Zlatko Tripic described the managers’ behavior as embarrassing for two of the country’s top coaches.
Disputing Physicality and Playing Styles
Post-match recriminations centered heavily on physical play and accusations of playacting.
Statistical indicators highlighted the contrasting approaches of the two clubs over the course of the campaign. Viking accumulated 53 yellow cards compared to Bodø/Glimt’s 14, a discrepancy Jensen attributed to an aggressive, high-pressing tactical system that leaves the defense exposed in transition. Glimt players maintained that their own style forces opponents deeper into their own half, altering where fouls naturally occur.
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