Vålerenga’s Remarkable UWCL Journey: A New Era for Women’s Football
OSLO, Norway — In the UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL) match against St. Pölten, Norwegian underdogs Vålerenga achieved a 2-2 draw, highlighted by Karina Saevik’s opening goal. However, Agnes Viljugrein, the team’s capo and a member of the Norwegian parliament, missed the moment as she focused on energizing the crowd.
As the leader of the “Østblokka,” the passionate section of Vålerenga’s supporters, Viljugrein’s role involved directing chants and cheers throughout the match. With her back to the field, she relies on the reactions of fans to gauge the game’s progression.
“Not long ago, we didn’t even need someone in this position because our crowds were so small,” Viljugrein shared. “Now, we have a larger following than ever before. We are cultivating a real community that passionately supports the women’s team.”
The team’s success is evident as Vålerenga has qualified for the UWCL group stage for two consecutive seasons. Amid a competitive landscape shaped by the financial power of major European clubs, Vålerenga is holding its own and remains in contention for the knockout stages of the tournament.
“Qualifying for the league phase has been a strategic aim for us,” said Harriet Rudd, the CEO of Vålerenga. “Since I joined in 2021, this has been our primary objective. This achievement is significant both financially and strategically, despite the costs associated with it. It is crucial for our club’s future development.”
“We want players who are eager to grow and develop, seeing Vålerenga as a stepping stone to greater opportunities in their careers. Creating a conducive environment for our players is essential—this includes our facilities and the overall training atmosphere.”
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Vålerenga’s sporting director, Steinar Pedersen, who came on board in 2022 after a notable playing career, plays an integral role in this transformation. With the market for women’s football seeing record transfer fees, it is Pedersen’s challenge to source talent without the resources of wealthier clubs.
“Recruitment is vital in European competitions,” he explained. “While the Norwegian league has improved, many clubs still struggle to meet the standards required at this level.”
“Players are looking at Vålerenga as a launchpad to bigger leagues, and it’s crucial we develop homegrown talent simultaneously. We aim to be a club where future stars can hone their skills.”
This season, the UWCL is undergoing a significant transformation, increasing the number of teams in the league phase from 16 to 18. Between 2025 and 2027, participating clubs will share €18.2 million in prize money, which will rise to €24.1 million from 2027 to 2030.
A share of this financial boost could greatly affect the future of Vålerenga’s women’s team. Pedersen is keen on partnerships with other European clubs to ensure efficient use of resources.
“We have had the opportunity to consult with larger clubs, and while the resource disparity is significant, a career path is now available to players that wasn’t present before. We need to equip them to meet the expectations of higher-level football. Every aspiring player dreams of playing for top clubs.”
“However, my concern is the rapid growth of women’s sports; I wonder if Norway can keep pace. Although we have a society focused on equality, the influx of money into football poses challenges, as many men’s clubs target the same markets.”
Vålerenga faces tough competition for commercial support and fan engagement against globally recognized teams. However, the surging interest in women’s football has led to record crowds at UWCL matches, contrasting with the 409 attendees at the Vålerenga versus St. Pölten match. Nonetheless, there is a recognition of potential growth, with excitement outweighing fear.
“It’s exhilarating to compete against the big names in football,” Rudd noted. “The players relish the attention and the challenge. Achieving milestones, like our win against Roma, underscores our potential.”
Vålerenga now aims for a spot in the Champions League quarterfinals, made feasible by the new playoff system that offers clubs outside the elite a genuine chance for advancement.
Upcoming matches against Paris FC and Bayern will present formidable challenges. However, Lexerød’s squad has shown their capability to compete at high levels.
“Qualifying would be incredible, but I’m hesitant to dream too big just yet,” Viljugrein shared. “If it were to happen, I hope we could illustrate to Norwegian society the significance of supporting women’s teams both on and off the field.”
The UWCL final will take place in Oslo next May, putting the spotlight on Norway. Though the idea of Vålerenga reaching the final feels distant, their growth over the last few years has ignited hopes for future successes—something the club and its supporters can celebrate.
– Photo credits: Ane Frøsaker / Grabthemomentphoto (unless otherwise stated)
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