IFK Värnamo delivered a masterclass performance at Strawberry Arena on Sunday, overcoming AIK Stockholm 3-2 in a thrilling Allsvenskan encounter that saw the visitors dominate the opening half before weathering a late home surge.

The match began explosively for Värnamo, who struck twice within the opening 20 minutes to silence the Stockholm crowd. Rufai Mohammed opened the scoring in the 15th minute with assistance from Otso Liimatta, before Liimatta himself doubled the advantage just four minutes later, capitalizing on excellent build-up play from Axel Björnström.

Värnamo's early dominance was reflected in their superior possession statistics, controlling 61% of the ball compared to AIK's 39%, while maintaining an impressive 82% pass accuracy despite attempting more passes throughout the contest. The visitors' tactical discipline under coach Arne Sandstø proved crucial as they effectively neutralized AIK's attacking threats in the opening period.

The away side extended their commanding lead to 3-0 in the 27th minute when Mohammad Alsalkhadi found the net, again benefiting from Björnström's creative distribution. The Swedish defender's two assists in the first half demonstrated his pivotal role in Värnamo's fluid attacking play.

AIK, managed by Mikkjal Kjartansson Thomassen, entered the halftime break facing a mountain to climb. The hosts had managed just 39% possession and struggled to create meaningful chances despite their 5-4-1 formation designed to provide defensive stability while supporting lone striker Kevin Filling.

The second half witnessed a dramatic shift in momentum as AIK launched a spirited comeback attempt. Erik Flataker, who had entered as a substitute, became the catalyst for the home side's resurgence, scoring twice to breathe new life into the contest. His first goal came in the 62nd minute courtesy of Bersant Celina's assist, before adding another in the 82nd minute with Dino Beširović providing the service.

The closing stages grew increasingly fractious, with yellow cards distributed to both sides as tensions escalated. Anton Salétros received AIK's first caution in the 32nd minute, while the match's final moments saw bookings for Beširović and Celina as AIK desperately sought an equalizer.

Despite AIK's valiant late effort, Värnamo held firm to secure a vital three points that could prove crucial in their battle against relegation. The victory marked a significant breakthrough for the 16th-placed visitors, who had endured a difficult campaign prior to this impressive display.

For AIK, currently sitting fourth in the table, the defeat represents a missed opportunity to consolidate their position in the upper reaches of the Allsvenskan standings.