Dramatic Europa League Draw Keeps Brann’s Hopes Alive
A late penalty secured a crucial point for Brann in a thrilling Europa League encounter against midtjylland on Thursday, leaving their qualification chances hanging in the balance. The match, played at a packed Brann Stadion, was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by controversial decisions, missed opportunities, and a dramatic late equalizer.
Brann now likely needs only a single point in their upcoming match against Sturm Graz to advance in the competition.
The evening began wiht immediate controversy, as Midtjylland took an early lead after just five minutes.According to Brann’s head coach, Freyr Alexandersson, the opening goal was the result of unfair play. “The first goal is a scandal – that he talks to our captain when the corner kick is taken,” Alexandersson stated to Viaplay, referencing alleged interference with Brann’s captain during the set piece. Former Premier League player Philip Billing’s header set up Martin Erlic for the opener, leaving the brann faithful stunned.
Despite the early setback, Brann fought back, creating several chances. Thore pedersen, a retrained full-back, showcased his attacking prowess with a powerful shot that resulted in a corner. That corner proved pivotal, as Denzel De Roeve delivered a pinpoint cross, met by a towering header from Noah Holm, leveling the score and igniting the Brann Stadion.
The momentum continued to swing, with Ulrik Mathisen nearly finding the net after a well-placed cross from De roeve, only to be denied by a sharp save from Elias Rafn Olafsson.However, Midtjylland responded before halftime, with Junior Bromado capitalizing on defensive lapses to restore their lead. “It is indeed to cheap. It’s a bad Brann game in its own box,” one commentator observed.
The second half saw Brann push for an equalizer, earning a free kick just outside the box. Emil Kornvig’s attempt was initially blocked, but a subsequent handball in the area led to a penalty. Kornvig stepped up and calmly converted, bringing the score to 2-2.
however, the joy was short-lived. Midtjylland quickly regained the lead following a corner kick, with erlic once again finding the back of the net. Just when it seemed all hope was lost, Brann was awarded another penalty in overtime after a handball decision by referee Georgi Kabakov.
Joachim Soltvedt, under immense pressure, delivered a composed finish, securing a 3-3 draw.
“To be able to secure a point in this way – it is an incredibly proud moment for me,” Soltvedt told Viaplay after the match.
The draw leaves Brann in a favorable position heading into their final group stage match, needing only a point against Sturm Graz to secure their place in the next round. The team’s resilience and determination where on full display in a match that will be remembered as a classic at Brann Stadion.
Why did this match matter? This Europa League match was crucial for Brann’s qualification hopes. A win or draw would keep them in contention for advancing to the next round.
Who played? The match was between brann (Norway) and midtjylland (Denmark). Key players included Martin erlic (Midtjylland), Noah Holm and Joachim Soltvedt (Brann).
What happened? the game was a back-and-forth affair with multiple lead changes. Midtjylland took the lead twice, but Brann responded with goals from Noah Holm and two penalties converted by Emil Kornvig and Joachim Soltvedt. The final score was
