Tko prijeti Dinamu na zadnjoj stepenici do sna? Za renesansu je zaslužan i Hrvat

Viking FK, based in Stavanger, Norway, has returned to the pinnacle of Norwegian football after securing its first league title in 34 years. The club's resurgence is attributed to the coaching duo of Bjarte Lunde Aarsheim and Morten Jensen, who have shared leadership responsibilities without a traditional head coach. Their collaborative approach initially faced skepticism but ultimately led to success, culminating in a dramatic final match against Valerengen, which they won 5-1 to clinch the championship. This victory ended a six-year dominance by Molde and Bodø/Glimt, with Viking maintaining a one-point advantage over Bodø/Glimt heading into the last round. The triumph was marked by the contributions of several key players, including Zlatko Tripić, a Croatian-born forward who joined Viking after the team's relegation from the top flight. Over two seasons, Tripić has scored 70 goals, becoming a cult figure among fans. Another standout player is 23-year-old defender Henrik Falch, currently sidelined due to injury, who is the sole representative of Viking in the 2026 World Cup squad. His presence highlights the rising profile of the club on the international stage. Viking FK boasts a rich history, having previously won six league titles between 1972 and 1982. However, the club has struggled to maintain relevance in recent decades, with its last major success dating back to the early 1980s. Notable figures such as Bill Foulkes, a survivor of the Munich air disaster, and Roy Hodgson once graced the club's coaching staff, but the club fell from grace in 2017 when it was relegated from the top division under manager Ian Burchnall. Since then, Viking has worked diligently to rebuild its reputation and competitive edge. In the current season, Viking has been performing exceptionally well, finishing second in the league table with a valuation of €47.5 million. They trail Bodø/Glimt by just one point, with one fewer game played. In their latest match, Viking secured a 3-0 victory away at IK Start, showcasing their resilience and form. The team's performance in derby matches has been particularly impressive, notably a 5-0 win over Bodø/Glimt in April, which demonstrated their ability to dominate even their fiercest rivals. Looking ahead, Viking faces a crucial challenge in the Europa League playoffs. If they advance past the group stage, they will face the winner of the tie between Hradec Králové and Beşiktaş. Hradec Králové eliminated Tromsø with two victories, while Beşiktaş defeated Midtjylland without conceding a goal. This potential matchup could prove pivotal for Viking, given their historical ties to European competition. In 1988, Viking faced Beşiktaş in the UEFA Cup, with Zvonimir Boban playing a prominent role for Dinamo Zagreb. That encounter, which saw Dinamo secure a 2-0 victory at Maksimir, remains a notable chapter in the club's European history. The resurgence of Viking FK marks a significant turnaround for the club, blending historical legacy with contemporary success. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, Viking is poised to make its mark in both domestic and European competitions. As the club continues to build on this momentum, the focus will remain on sustaining their current form and challenging for further honors in the coming seasons.