Following another away defeat this weekend, there is little to suggest Brann will reach Europe next season. That is at least the opinion of expert Endre Olav Osnes, who gave a clear assessment of the team's chances after the match in Kristiansand.
- It does not look like Europe is on the cards for Brann next season, Osnes told Bergens Tidende. He pointed to the disappointing result against Start as a sign the team lacks the necessary consistency.
On the scoreline of 2-0 after goals from Ousmane Diallo Toure and Jesper Cornelius for Start, Brann never gained a foothold in the match. This was the team's second consecutive league defeat, following a 1-2 loss to Lillestrøm last weekend. Their last five matches have yielded just one win, two draws, and two defeats.
The short version
- Result: Start 2-0 Brann.
- Scorers: Ousmane Diallo Toure (44') and Jesper Cornelius (90+4') for Start.
- The story: Brann's European dreams appear to be over for this season, according to expert analysis.
Brann now sit in eighth place in Eliteserien with 26 points from 20 games. They have scored 37 goals and conceded 31, giving them a goal difference of plus six. They trail league leaders Bodø/Glimt by a full 21 points.
The next task will not be easier, as the team faces Bodø/Glimt at home at Brann Stadion next Sunday. With Sakarias Opsahl still on the injuries list, the manager must find solutions to turn the trend around.
Osnes's analysis comes at a time when the team needs points to stay in the fight for the top places. The squad must show they can deliver in the important matches ahead, and a win against the league leaders would be a significant statement. The match against Bodø/Glimt kicks off at 18:00 on Sunday.
