Preview: SK Brann vs Bologna Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds | UEFA Europa League 2025-26 Playoffs first-leg

The previous outing between these sides ended in a goalless draw.
SK Brann are all set to host Bologna FC for their first-leg playoffs fixture of the 2025-26 UEFA Europa League. This is going to be an interesting clash, taking place at the Brann Stadion.
The Eliteserien-based club will be at home, but it is not going to make things any easier for them. SK Brann have been very inconsistent with their performances and this is going to keep them under pressure for their European competition fixture. Bergens stolthet just secured two wins during the league phase, but managed to finish in 24th place.
Bologna FC have also lacked consistency this season and the upcoming fixture is not going to be an easy one for them. They will be away from home, making it a bit tougher for them. The Rossoblu will be keen to put in a top show so that they can take advantage in their upcoming UEFA Europa League contest.
Kick-off:
- Location: Bergen, Norway
- Stadium: Brann Stadium
- Date: Thursday, February 19
- Kick-off Time: 11:15 p.m. IST/ 05:45 p.m. GMT/ 12:45 p.m. ET/ 09:45 a.m. PT
- Referee: TBD
- VAR: In use
Form:
Brann: D-L-D-L-W
Bologna: W-L-L-D-W
Players to Watch
Emil Kornvig (SK Brann)
Emil Kornvig is going to play a crucial part in the squad for SK Brann, both in the midfield and the attacking front. He has scored three goals in seven UEFA Europa League appearances this season and will be eager to add more to his tally. He can control the ball well in the midfield and is also capable of scoring goals.
Santiago Castro (Bologna)
Santiago Castro has scored goals in back-to-back games for Bologna FC and will be gearing up yet again to help his side in the final third. He is going to lead the attack for the visitors and will be a constant threat to the opponent’s defence. Even though he is yet to score a goal in the European competition this season, Castro is going to play an important role.
Match Facts
- SK Brann have only won one of their last five games.
- Bologna FC have secured two wins in five attempts.
- These sides are going to face each other for the second time this season.
SK Brann vs Bologna: Betting Tips and Odds
- Bologna to win @11/13 Unibet
- Santiago Castro to score @23/10 BetMGM
- Goals under 3.5 @2/7 Unibet
Injury and Team News
SK Brann will miss out on the services of Niklas Castro, Jonas Torsvik, Eggert Aron Gudmundsson, Niklas Jensen Wassberg, Saevar Atli Magnusson and Sakarias Opsahl. They are injured.
Torbjorn Heggem, Lorenzo De Silverstri and Charalambos Lykogiannis are not going to be in action for Bologna FC due to their injuries.
Head-to-Head
Total matches: 1
Brann won: 0
Bologna won: 0
Draws: 1
Predicted Lineups
SK Brann predicted lineup (4-4-2)
Dyngeland (GK); De Roeve, Knudsen, Boakye, Dragsnes; Kornvig, Sorensen, Pedersen, Haaland; Mathisen, Holm
Bologna predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Skorupski (GK); João Mário, Vitík, Lucumí, Miranda; Moro, Freuler; Bernardeschi, Sohm, Rowe; Castro
Match Prediction
The hosts will be under pressure and the Rossoblu will be looking to use it to their advantage. Bologna FC are likely to come out on top to secure a win against SK Brann in their upcoming UEFA Europa League playoffs clash.
Prediction: Brann 1-2 Bologna
Telecast Details
India: SonyLIV, Sony Sports Network
UK: TNT Sports
US: Paramount+, TUDN
Middle East/North Africa: beIN Sports
When and where is SK Brann vs Bologna Europa League match?
Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Brann Stadium in Bergen, Norway. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:45 p.m. GMT.
Where and how to watch Europa League in India?
Sony Liv and Sony Sports Network will come up with the live streaming of all matches.
Where and how to watch Europa League in UK?
TNT Sports will stream all the games for the fans in the United Kingdom.
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Dilpreet is a dedicated football writer with a keen eye for World Football. As a proud Real Madrid fan, we believe his work reflects the same ambition and precision. Since joining Khel Now in 2025, he has crafted stories beyond scores, diving into tactics, culture, and emotion. With a strong background in content writing, he blends clarity with creativity, always aiming to bring the beautiful game closer to readers.