Bologna vs. Brann Prediction, Odds & Betting Tips

The UEFA Europa League group stage presents a compelling contrast in styles and pedigrees when Italian Serie A side Bologna hosts Norwegian contenders SK Brann. This matchup at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara promises tactical intrigue, with Bologna’s defensive solidity under manager Vincenzo Italiano being tested by Brann’s prolific attack. This comprehensive preview provides the analysis, predictions, and betting tips you need for the encounter on Thursday, November 6, 2025.

Match Overview and Key Details

• Competition: UEFA Europa League 2025/26
• Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
• Kick-off Time: 20:00 UTC
• Venue: Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, Bologna
• Status: League Phase

Bologna, a team with a rich history in Italian football, enters this match as the clear favorite, largely due to their superior league standing and impressive current form. The Rossoblu (The Red and Blues) are undefeated in their last eight matches across all competitions, a run that includes four wins and two draws, showcasing both resilience and consistency. Their most recent outing was a convincing 3-1 away victory against Parma in Serie A.

SK Brann, the pride of Bergen, presents an intriguing challenge. While they sit above Bologna in the nascent Europa League standings, their form has been more volatile. Their campaign has been characterized by a potent attack—they’ve found the net 12 times in their last five matches—but also defensive vulnerabilities, having been scored against in five of their last six outings. They arrive in Italy off the back of a disappointing 2-1 loss to Bryne in the Norwegian Eliteserien.

Bologna vs Brann: Predicted Lineups and Tactical Setup

Bologna (Probable 4-2-3-1):

• GK: Łukasz Skorupski
• Defense: Emil Holm, Torbjørn Heggem, Jhon Lucumí, Juan Miranda
• Defensive Midfield: Remo Freuler, Lewis Ferguson
• Attacking Midfield: Riccardo Orsolini, Jens Odgaard, Nicolò Cambiaghi
• Striker: Santiago Castro

Manager: Vincenzo Italiano

Bologna is expected to deploy their familiar 4-2-3-1 formation, a system that provides tactical stability and controlled aggression. The midfield duo of Freuler and Ferguson will be crucial in screening the defense and initiating quick transitions. The creative burden will fall on the likes of Riccardo Orsolini and Jens Odgaard, who will look to supply striker Santiago Castro. Bologna’s style is defined by methodical build-up play and high ball possession, averaging nearly 60% possession in recent games with an impressive 88% pass accuracy.

SK Brann (Probable 4-3-3):

• GK: Matias Dyngeland
• Defense: Denzel De Roeve, Fredrik Knudsen, Eivind Helland, Vetle Dragsnes
• Midfield: Emil Kornvig, Jakob Sörensen, Eggert Aron Gudmundsson
• Attack: Ulrik Mathisen, Bard Finne, Noah Jean Holm

Manager: Freyr Alexandersson

Brann also favors a 4-3-3 formation, which allows them to leverage their attacking width and energetic midfield. Their game plan often revolves around fast transitions and committing players forward. Emil Kornvig, with four goals in his last five games, is a key figure in midfield, providing both a goal threat and energetic presence. The attack is led by Noah Jean Holm, supported by the creativity of Ulrik Mathisen and Bard Finne.

Statistical Deep Dive: Team Form and Strengths

To understand the dynamics of this match, it’s essential to break down the recent performance data for both teams.

Table: Bologna vs Brann – Statistical Comparison

Analyzing the Data

• Bologna’s Strengths: The statistics paint a picture of a well-organized, defensively robust unit. Their low goals-conceded average and high clean sheet percentage are testaments to a disciplined defensive structure. Their ability to maintain possession and control the tempo of the game will be a key weapon against Brann.
• Brann’s Threats: The Norwegian side’s primary strength is its attack. They score frequently and have failed to find the net in none of their last five matches. However, their main weakness is also defensive; they have conceded in the majority of their recent games, which is a significant concern when facing a disciplined side like Bologna.

Head-to-Head and Injury News

Head-to-Head History

Interestingly, there is no previous competitive record between these two clubs. This adds an element of unpredictability to the tie, as both teams will be venturing into the unknown.

Team News and Absences

Injuries could play a decisive role in the outcome of this match.

• Bologna: The main absentee for the Italian side is experienced forward Ciro Immobile, who is sidelined with a thigh injury and will not feature. Key midfielder Remo Freuler picked up a knock in the win over Parma, and his fitness will be assessed; if unavailable, Nikola Moro is ready to step into the starting XI.
• SK Brann: The visitors have a much more extensive injury list, which could severely hamper their efforts. Key players including top scorer Sævar Atli Magnusson, Felix Horn Myhre, Niklas Jensen Wassberg, Sakarias Opsahl, and Jonas Torsvik are all expected to miss the match due to injury. The absence of Magnusson, in particular, robs Brann of a significant goal threat.

Bologna vs Brann Betting Tips and Predictions

Based on the analysis of team form, tactics, injuries, and statistical data, here are our top betting recommendations for this Europa League encounter.

Match Result: Bologna to Win

• Reasoning: Bologna’s impressive unbeaten run and formidable defensive record at home make them the clear favorites. They possess greater tactical discipline and play in a significantly stronger domestic league (Serie A), which is ranked among the top four in the world for its tactical and defensive demands. Brann’s lengthy injury list, especially in defense and attack, severely weakens their chances of causing an upset on Italian soil. The market consensus strongly backs a Bologna victory, reflecting this reality.
• Best Odds: 2/5 (Fractional) or 1.40 (Decimal)

Total Goals: Under 2.5 Goals

• Reasoning: While this might seem counterintuitive given Brann’s high-scoring games, this pick leans on Bologna’s tactical style and defensive strength. Italian teams are renowned for their tactical mastery and defensive prowess, often leading to tighter, lower-scoring games in European competitions. Bologna’s recent matches have seen an average of 2.6 goals per game, but against a depleted Brann side away from home, they are likely to control the game and minimize risks. Furthermore, the “Under 3.5 Goals” market is identified as a high-value bet with a 70% probability according to some models.
• Best Odds: ~1.70 (Decimal)

Correct Score: Bologna 2 – 0 Brann

• Reasoning: This scoreline perfectly encapsulates the expected match dynamics. Bologna’s defensive solidity—they have conceded an average of just 0.8 goals per game—makes a clean sheet a distinct possibility, especially against a Brann side missing its key striker. At the other end, Bologna’s quality in attack, led by the in-form Santiago Castro, should be enough to breach Brann’s compromised defense a couple of times. A 2-0 victory is a popular prediction among pundits and reflects a controlled, professional performance from the home side.
• Best Odds: Varies by bookmaker (check individual sites for best price)

Alternative Betting Options

• Both Teams To Score (BTTS): NO. Given Bologna’s strong defensive record at home and Brann’s significant attacking absences, the likelihood of the Norwegian side scoring is reduced. Bologna has kept a clean sheet in 40% of their matches, and this trend could continue.
• Asian Handicap: Bologna -1. For those seeking better value, backing Bologna to win by at least a one-goal margin is a strong alternative. This bet would win if Bologna wins by two or more goals, and your stake is returned if they win by exactly one goal.

Where to Watch: Global Live Stream Listings

For fans around the world, here is where you can catch the match live:

Final Thoughts and Prediction

All signs point towards a victory for Bologna. The combination of their superior individual quality, tactical discipline under Vincenzo Italiano, formidable home form, and Brann’s crippling injury crisis creates a perfect storm that should see the Italian side secure a comfortable three points.

While Brann’s attacking spirit may cause a moment of concern, their defensive frailties are likely to be exposed by a more technically gifted and organized opponent. Expect Bologna to control possession, dictate the pace, and secure a win that strengthens their position in the Europa League.

Final Prediction: Bologna 2 – 0 SK Brann

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