Brann assistant coach Erik Huseklepp stood by the controversial red card shown to Kristall Ingason following a heated post-match exchange with Bodø/Glimt manager Kjetil Knutsen. The touchline argument highlighted the lingering tensions over a tackle that could impact team discipline as Brann build momentum.

The incident occurred in Brann's 2-1 victory over Bodø/Glimt, a result that moved them to 7th place in the Eliteserien with 29 points from 21 games. Ingason was initially shown a yellow card for a challenge on Patrick Berg in the 68th minute, but the referee upgraded it to red after a VAR review.

Heated touchline clash

Interviewed together by BT after the final whistle, Huseklepp and Knutsen continued their debate on the sideline. Huseklepp insisted the rules supported the decision., I say the rules say it is a red card, said Huseklepp.

Knutsen retorted by calling the argument childish., Childish? It is incredible that you can think that. It is rather more what is insane, said the Glimt boss. He stressed that intent was irrelevant and the tackle was clearly a sending-off, adding that Berg was lucky not to suffer a serious injury.

Ingason's view

The player himself spoke to Bergensavisen after the match. Kristall Ingason described the situation as unfortunate., I looked at the ball and got it, but he gets a foot in. It is an ugly tackle. I am sorry it happened, but it was not intentional, said Ingason.

Head coach Eirik Horneland also commented, saying Ingason was unlucky but understood why it could be judged a red card in slow motion.

Consequences and context

The dismissal comes as Brann have just built momentum with two consecutive wins, including this one over Bodø/Glimt. The team faces a stern test next weekend, however, when they host league leaders Viking.

With the victory, Brann secured three important points in their push up the table. This season's top scorer is Noah Jean Holm with six goals, and the team will need his quality against Viking. For a complete squad overview, visit our squad page.

Read the full report at Bergensavisen