Esbjerg fB opened their pre-season with a thrilling 3-3 draw at home against Vejle BK, rallying from two goals down in a lively, high-tempo match at the club’s training ground. All three Esbjerg goals arrived after the break as the hosts briefly turned a 0-2 deficit into a 3-2 lead before Vejle equalized late in the game.
Match Highlights and Key Moments
Vejle started on top and went ahead after 30 minutes when a loose ball from a corner was turned in by Tobias Bach. Esbjerg worked their way into the game and threatened before halftime, but the visitors maintained a 1-0 advantage at the interval.
Mike Vestergård doubled Vejle’s lead five minutes into the second half. However, Esbjerg responded quickly, with Lucas From making it 1-2 on 57 minutes after winning the ball on a break and finishing low into the corner.
The momentum swung further toward the home side. John Kolawole leveled the score in the 73rd minute, reacting first to a rebound after an initial header was saved. Ten minutes later, Marcus Hansen cut in from the right and struck from distance to put Esbjerg in front at 3-2.
The closing stages were open, with chances for both teams. In the final minute, Bismark Edjeodji equalized for Vejle, sealing the draw and ensuring a dynamic finish to the match.
Head coach Sancheev Manoharan spread minutes across a large portion of the squad, implementing numerous changes after halftime. The warm conditions led to drink breaks in both halves, and the match also featured a reunion with former Esbjerg player Kasper Kristensen, who played the full game in goal for Vejle.
Despite the late setback, Esbjerg could take away several positives from the match, including a strong reaction after the interval, impressive attacking intent, and valuable playing time for many squad members in their first friendly of the summer. Notably, Mikail Maden, Peter Bjur, and Noah Strandby were unavailable for this match, but their presence will be felt as the team progresses through the pre-season.