Vålerenga Fotball 2023: How their varied corner kick deliveries are keeping them out of the relegation zone – set-piece analysis

Vålerenga Fotball are a side in the top flight of Norwegian football, although their status in the league is on thin ice, with the club on equal points with teams battling for relegation. The appointment of new manager Geir Bakke has recently lifted spirits, with the club unbeaten in six before losing against UEFA Europa Conference League side FK Bodø/Glimt.

The appointment of the new manager has seen a rise in the efficiency from corner kicks and a new sense of bravery in the number of different things they have been trying from corner kicks in recent weeks. Set plays have been crucial to Vålerenga, with over 27% of their league goals coming from set plays, as well as the side having reached the semi-finals of the NM Cup.

In this tactical analysis, we will look into the tactics behind Vålerengas attacking corners, with an in-depth analysis of how their different types of deliveries have been used. This set-piece analysis will examine why these routines have had some bright signs, how its worked for Vålerenga, and the steps they can take to become more efficient from set plays.

Floated Corners to the Near Post

Vålerenga have mainly used the floated corner during set plays. Similarly to Swedens women at the World Cup, these corner kicks have been chipped towards the near half of the six-yard box. The starting positions of the attackers by the goal attract numerous defenders, creating heavy traffic inside the six-yard box. With the high arc of the cross, the attackers have plenty of time to judge the balls flight and time the moment to attack the ball.

One of the most important aspects to remember when using floated crosses is to ensure the goalkeeper cannot come out to claim the ball. It is easier for goalkeepers to claim the ball when it is travelling through the air for such a long time, so Vålerenga have done well in preventing the goalkeeper from coming off their line, giving the attackers a fair chance at winning the aerial duel against the marker.

The club has done well in coordinating their attacks, with the player blocking the keeper, and knowing when to step in front/behind the keeper, depending on where the cross is being aimed at.