Match Preview

Bologna host SK Brann at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on Thursday, 26 February 2026, with the Italian side holding a slim advantage after winning the first leg 1-0 in Bergen. With the tie still tight, the return match has the feel of a classic European “one-moment” night: one early goal could completely flip the tension.

The first leg was more uncomfortable than many expected for the Serie A team. Brann competed well, asked questions in the final third, and had spells where they looked confident on the ball. But Bologna’s experience in managing key phases showed, and they found a way to leave Norway with a win. That matters. In two-legged ties, it often comes down to who stays calm when the match gets messy.

At home, Bologna should play with more authority. Expect them to press a bit higher, keep the ball for longer stretches, and try to force Brann into defending deeper than they want. They also have the option to be patient. A 0-0 draw is enough for them, so they don’t need to chase the match recklessly.

For Brann, the task is clear: they must score. That doesn’t mean going all-out from minute one, but they do need bravery. If Brann can stay compact, survive the first wave, and then hit Bologna in transition, the tie can still swing. The danger is leaving gaps behind the midfield line, because Bologna have the quality to punish that with one clean sequence.

Game management may decide this. Bologna have the advantage and the stadium behind them. Brann have the urgency and sometimes that’s the most dangerous weapon of all.

TV Broadcast and Livestreams

Europa League broadcast rights vary by country. Check your local listings or streaming apps on matchday to confirm the official live coverage available in your region.

Match Information

Odds (1X2)

Market prices strongly lean toward a home win, which fits the tie situation: Bologna control their destiny, while Brann must take risks to overturn the deficit.

Form and Head-to-Head Notes

Recent meetings this season show how competitive this matchup can be. Bologna and Brann played out a 0-0 draw earlier in the Europa League league phase, before Bologna edged the first leg 1-0 in Norway. That trend points toward a structured, tactical contest rather than a wide-open shootout.

Key theme: Brann can stay in games. Bologna, however, have shown they can find a decisive moment even when the flow is uncomfortable.

Key Players to Watch

Bologna

Riccardo Orsolini gives Bologna directness from wide areas and can change a match with one sharp action. Bologna’s attacking depth also matters late on fresh legs can be a huge advantage in a second leg when the opponent is chasing.

SK Brann

Brann’s best moments typically come when they move the ball quickly into forward runners and attack space before the defence sets. Their challenge is being clinical: they may not get many clear chances in Bologna, so finishing quality becomes everything.

Prediction

Final Score Prediction: Bologna 2-0 SK Brann

Prediction: Bologna to win.

Reasoning: With a first-leg lead and home advantage, Bologna can play a controlled game and force Brann to open up. Once Brann start pushing numbers forward, the spaces in transition should increase exactly where the home side can be ruthless.

Suggested angles (general): Bologna to win; Under 3.5 goals. Always bet responsibly.