Odd Grenland has had a disappointing season in the Obos-ligaen. They have lost games they would normally be expected to win. Most recently, they lost to Skeid, who are currently in last place in the league and have only won one game in their last 18 matches. Odd was outplayed by Skeid.

What's gone wrong for Odd Grenland?

They have been struggling with high shoulders, poor passing play, losing the ball easily in unpressured situations, and poor finishes. Even when it seemed like they had scoring opportunities. A key explanation can be found in the mental state of the players and the team.

Is it a mental collapse?

I think it's fair to say that both individual players and the entire team have experienced a mental collapse. And I wonder. Does the team even have a mental coach? It doesn't seem like it.

What can be done?

Sports psychologist Willy Railo had great success with top athletes a few years ago, and his knowledge is still relevant: Thinking around sports. It has an impact on performance. Thinking negatively means giving yourself negative self-instructions. For example, saying to yourself «I must, I will, I should!». Cross out such negative self-instructions. Instead, give yourself positive self-instructions like «I want to, I can, I have the desire and I enjoy it!» Say it so many times that you start to believe in the self-instruction.

The future for Odd Grenland

If we can get it right, a lot will be done. It's a start. That is my hope for Odd Grenland!