
- Fixture: Red Bull Salzburg vs SK Brann (UEFA Champions League Second Qualifying Round, Second Leg)
- Date: Wednesday, July 30, 2025
- Venue: Red Bull Arena, Salzburg, Austria
Match Preview
Red Bull Salzburg and SK Brann face off in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League qualification on July 30, 2025, at the Red Bull Arena. With Salzburg coming into this clash riding high after a decisive 4-1 away victory in Norway, the Austrian side holds a significant advantage. That commanding result saw goals from Nene Dorgeles, Karim Onisiwo, Yorbe Vertessen, and Maurits Kjaergaard, highlighting Salzburg’s potent attack. For Brann, Saevar Atli Magnusson netted their consolation goal, but the Norwegian outfit faces an uphill battle to overturn a three-goal deficit on the road.
Salzburg’s recent form has been impressive. Beyond their statement win in Bergen, the Red Bulls recorded a comfortable 4-0 victory over Union Dietach in the Austrian Cup and have looked sharp throughout preseason and qualifying matches. Statistically, they are scoring an average of 2 goals and controlling matches with nearly 60% possession over their last 10 outings. Brann, by contrast, has endured an inconsistent run—winning 4, losing 3, and drawing 3 of their previous 10, scoring an average of 1.3 goals but also conceding at the same rate. Their away record in Europe remains shaky, and facing a Salzburg side that thrives at home only adds to their challenge.
Injuries and suspensions could play a significant role. Salzburg will be missing creative midfielder Maurits Kjaergaard, sidelined with a ligament injury, but otherwise remain close to full strength. Brann, however, come into the match with several key players unavailable: Fredrik Pallesen Knudsen (knee), Jonas Torsvik (muscle), and creative midfielders Sakarias Opsahl (foot) and Niklas Castro (ankle) are all out, severely limiting Brann’s squad depth and options, particularly in defense and midfield.
Key players to watch for Salzburg include Nene Dorgeles, who is in red-hot scoring form and leads the team with 8 goals, and Edmund Baidoo, a dynamic presence in Salzburg’s high-pressing attack. Yorbe Vertessen also offers a goal threat from midfield. For Brann, striker Aune Selland Heggeboe leads the scoring charts, while Joachim Soltvedt provides creativity and assists from the left. The burden will be on the likes of Bård Finne and Mads Sande to break down a disciplined Salzburg defense.
Given Salzburg’s commanding aggregate lead and superior form, they are strong favorites to win the match and secure their place in the next round. Brann’s depleted squad will likely struggle to make inroads against the Austrian side, and Salzburg should be able to manage the tie comfortably, perhaps even adding another win to their record.
Betting Markets and Odds
| Market | Odds | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Salzburg to Win | 2/7 | Bet Now |
| Draw | 5/1 | Bet Now |
| Brann to Win | 10/1 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score | 6/5 | Bet Now |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 8/13 | Bet Now |
| Nene Dorgeles Anytime | 11/8 | Bet Now |
| Correct Score: 2-0 | 13/2 | Bet Now |
Salzburg will look to finish the job at home, capitalizing on their attacking depth and Brann’s injury woes. Expect a dominant showing from the Austrian side as they march forward in Europe’s premier club competition.

