Match Overview

The 3rd round match of the 2025/26 group stage between Brann (Norway) and Rangers (Scotland) will take place on October 23 at the Brann Stadium in Bergen. This preview offers a detailed prediction, betting odds, and statistics for the Brann vs Rangers clash.

Brann’s Performance

Freyr Alexandersson’s squad has had a somewhat predictable start in the Europa League group stage. They suffered an expected 1-2 away defeat to Lille in the opening round, but then secured a 1-0 victory against Utrecht at home. This win against the Dutch side marks their third victory in their last four Europa League encounters. Following two matches in the main round, the Scandinavian team currently sits in 17th place in the standings.

Brann’s Key Statistics

• In this European competition, the Norwegians have played 10 matches over the last 8 years, drawing only once (5 wins and 4 losses).
• Fewer than 4 goals were scored in 6 of Brann’s last 7 Europa League matches.
• At home, the club conceded goals in 4 of its last 5 matches in this tournament.

Brann’s Predicted Lineup (4-1-4-1)*

Mathias Dyngeland – Fredrik Knudsen, Eyvind Helland, Denzel de Ruve, Vetle Dragsnes – Emil Kornvig, Jakob Sørensen, Felix Myhre – Ulrik Mathisen, Sævar Magnússon, Eggert Gudmundsson. 

Rangers’ Current Form

The Scottish side has had an unexpectedly poor start to the Europa League group stage. They began with a 0-1 home defeat against Genk, followed by a 1-2 loss away to Sturm. Consequently, the club, along with five other teams, is at the bottom of the table with zero points. It’s also worth noting that Rangers have been unable to secure a victory in this European competition for five consecutive matches (1 draw and 4 defeats).

Coaching Situation at Rangers

In early October, the club’s management dismissed Russell Martin. A new head coach has not yet been appointed, with Steven Smith stepping in as interim manager.

Rangers’ Key Statistics

• At least one team failed to score in 4 of the last 5 previous games for the Scots in the Europa League.
• Rangers conceded goals in 10 of their last 11 matches in this tournament.
• Two or more goals were scored in 9 of the club’s previous away matches in this European competition.

Team News

Forward Mohamed Diomande is unavailable due to suspension.

Rangers’ Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)*

Jack Butland – John Souttar, James Tavernier, Derek Cornelius, Jaden Meghoma – Nicolas Raskin, Connor Barron – Jaidi Gassama, Maiky Moore, Oliver Antman – Youssef Chermiti.

Referee Profile

Vassilios Fotias (Greece)

Matches – 12 (International matches, 2024/25–2025/26);

Yellow cards shown (including second yellows) – 46;

Average yellow cards per match – 3.8;

Red cards shown – 2;

Average fouls per match – 23;

Penalties awarded – 33%.

Match Prediction Overview

This encounter features two teams of roughly equal strength, making it challenging to pinpoint a clear winner. I believe it’s more prudent to focus on the scoring potential of both sides. The Norwegians perform well on their home turf, having failed to score in only one of their last 10 home matches in European competitions. However, they also conceded goals in 9 of their last 11 home games in continental tournaments.

Rangers’ Offensive Needs

The Scottish club desperately needs to improve their performance. Their current standing in the tournament is clearly unsatisfactory, and to climb up the table, they must prioritize their attack. Rangers have scored in 8 of their last 9 away matches in the Europa League. However, their defense has been less than stellar, conceding in their last 6 away games in this competition.

Final Bet Recommendation

My prediction is “Both Teams to Score – Yes” with odds of 1.69.

Author’s Note

Author: Oleksandr Oleksenko 

The starting lineup listed for each team is from their previous match in this tournament.