Following two consecutive defeats in the Eliteserien, Brann get a chance to change momentum in the cup. The team travels to face Os in the Norwegian Cup round of 64 on Wednesday, September 16, with the manager indicating several players in need of minutes will get their opportunity from the start.
Injury issues persist
Brann enter the match with an injury list that remains lengthy. Midfielders Kjartan Mar Kjartansson and Sakarias Opsahl are out, alongside forward Sævar Atli Magnússon. This limits rotation options but also opens the door for other squad members. In the last league match, a 2-0 loss to Start, the team lined up with Mathias Dyngeland in goal and a back four of Lars Cornic, Fredrik Knudsen, Tore Pedersen and Jonatan Soltvedt.
Form needs to change
The season has been inconsistent for Brann, who sit eighth in the Eliteserien with 26 points from 20 games. They have scored 37 goals but conceded 31. The last five matches have yielded just one win, two draws and two losses, including the last two against Lillestrøm and Start. Bård Finne scored the team's only goal in the 1-2 loss to Lillestrøm last weekend. To see the team's upcoming schedule, check the fixtures page.
- It's important that we advance in the cup, a club spokesperson said., At the same time, this is an opportunity for us to build some confidence and find a winning rhythm again.
Regardless of the result against Os, a major challenge awaits on Sunday. League leaders Bodø/Glimt then visit Brann Stadion in what will be a key league fixture. A win over Os could provide a vital boost ahead of that clash. To see how the team stands in the table, you can visit the standings page.
The manager's plan is to use the squad's depth to ensure a steady performance against the lower-ranked side, while keeping key players fresh for the match against Bodø/Glimt. Kick-off is at 18:00 on Wednesday.
