Two of the Nordic region’s most recognisable clubs met in an early-season friendly in Stockholm, as Djurgårdens IF hosted Vålerenga Fotball in a competitive February test. The match, played between two teams still shaping their squads and identities ahead of the 2026 season, ended 2–1 to Djurgården after a late winning goal.
3Arena (Stockholm, Sweden) — 14 February, 2026
Despite being a pre-season fixture, the game offered good intensity, tactical clarity, and several individual performances of clear scouting interest.
Coaches & Club Context
Djurgårdens IF – Jani Honkavaara (Head Coach)
Djurgården enter 2026 under new leadership, with Finnish coach Jani Honkavaara taking charge. Honkavaara arrives in Stockholm with a strong Nordic résumé:
- Head coach at KuPS (Finland) during the 2023 and 2024 seasons
- Simultaneously assistant coach for the Finland national team in 2024
- Known for structured, possession-based football with clear positional roles
His early influence is visible. Djurgården lined up in a 4-3-3, focusing on controlled build-up, midfield rotations, and patient attacking phases. Supporting him is Christer Mattiasson as assistant coach — a familiar name for Djurgården supporters. Mattiasson brings experience from IK Sirius, IF Brommapojkarna and Sollentuna FK, as well as his own history as a Djurgården player, adding both tactical and cultural continuity to the staff.
Vålerenga Fotball – Geir Bakke (Head Coach)
Vålerenga continue under Geir Bakke, in charge since 2023 after a successful spell with Lillestrøm SK. Bakke is widely respected for his ability to:
- Develop young players
- Improve individuals within a clear collective structure
- Combine discipline with attacking optimism
Vålerenga also operated in a 4-3-3, maintaining their identity as a development-focused club willing to play proactively against strong opposition.
Tactical Overview
Both teams mirrored each other structurally but interpreted the system differently.
Djurgårdens IF
- More controlled possession phases
- Emphasis on midfield circulation
- Full-backs joining higher in build-up
- Patience rather than high tempo pressing
Vålerenga Fotball
- More direct attacking intentions
- Quick transitions into wide areas
- Willingness to challenge behind Djurgården’s defensive line
- Strong individual initiative from wide players
The match remained fairly even for long stretches, with both sides creating chances without fully dominating.
Match Flow & Key Moments
Djurgården took the lead early and controlled much of the first half through possession and midfield structure. Vålerenga responded well after the break, increasing tempo and eventually finding an equaliser in the 68th minute.
As substitutions increased, the rhythm shifted. Djurgården finished stronger and were rewarded late, scoring the winning goal in the 89th minute to secure a 2–1 victory.
The scoreline reflected a match decided by small margins rather than clear superiority.
Players to Watch
Djurgårdens IF
Peter Langhoff (DEN), central midfielder born 2004
A rapid, intelligent Danish central midfielder with a profile blending the creativity of Iniesta and the energy of Paul Scholes.
- Aggressive in duels
- Quick decision-making
- Constantly looking to create for teammates
- A very interesting midfield profile
Mikael Marqués (SWE/ECU), centre-back born 2001
Second season at Djurgården after arriving from Västerås SK.
- Strong physical presence
- Good anticipation
- High level when fit
- Injuries slowed him previously, but the quality is obvious
Matias Siltanen (FIN), central midfielder born 2007
One of Finland’s most exciting young midfielders.
- Mixed consistency last season
- Very high ceiling
- Excellent in certain phases of the game
- Many expect 2026 to be his break-out year in Allsvenskan
Kalipha Jawla (SWE/GAM), centre-forward born 2006
Academy product with experience from a loan spell at FC Stockholm.
- Strong target profile
- Created danger immediately after coming on
- Close to scoring or assisting
- A forward who consistently finds situations
Ahmed Saeed (SWE/IRQ), right winger born 2008
Örebro-born academy graduate.
- Excellent change of pace
- Strong instinct for assists
- Smart movement between lines
- A player with clear long-term potential
Vålerenga Fotball
Filip Thorvaldsen (NOR), left winger born 2006
One of Vålerenga’s standout performers.
- Extremely quick
- Direct and confident
- Constant threat in wide areas
- A winger with clear upside
Fidel Brice Ambina (CMR), defensive midfielder born 2001
A very solid defensive midfielder.
- Calm in possession
- Good positional sense
- Contributed offensively against strong opposition
- A flexible, intelligent midfielder with clear football IQ
Final Summary
This February friendly between Djurgårdens IF and Vålerenga Fotball was a strong early-season indicator for both clubs.
Djurgården showed:
- Tactical direction under new leadership
- Depth through academy and recruitment
- Mentality to win even while rotating
Vålerenga confirmed:
- Their development-focused identity
- Courage to play proactively away from home
- A steady pipeline of young, interesting talent
A competitive, well-played friendly — and a very good starting point for 2026 for two of the Nordic region’s most respected clubs.
A match well worth noting for scouts operating across Scandinavia and the Baltic region.
(Photo by: Olof Broberg, ScoutMania main scout for the Swedish territory)
You can check our offers here and reach out to us via our ‘Contact us’ page for fixed or flexible packages. If you like it please SUBSCRIBE and you will receive all future articles and news.
