‘I’ve waited 34 years for this’ – Viking’s ‘special’ story
Viking FK’s 3-3 draw with Bayern Munich has brought a remarkable revival story into focus as the Norwegian side prepare to visit Aston Villa. After winning their first league title in 34 years last season, the Stavanger club are competing in the Champions League for the first time and are top of the Norwegian league again.
Captain Zlatko Tripic, who joined Viking in the second tier in 2018, said he had waited 34 years for a night like the Bayern match. Joint head coaches Morten Jensen and Bjarte Lunde Aarsheim took charge together in 2021 and led the team to last season’s title, secured with a 5-1 win over Valerenga and a one-point margin over Bodo/Glimt. Viking’s European schedule also includes Atletico Madrid and Napoli; the club last reached a European group stage in the 2005-06 Uefa Cup.
- Viking drew 3-3 with Bayern after leading 2-0 at half-time.
- The club ended a 34-year wait for a Norwegian title last season.
- Joint coaches Jensen and Aarsheim have led Viking’s revival.