Feb. 19, 2026, 7:30 a.m. ET
The UEFA Europa League knockout playoffs begin on Thursday as SK Brann hosts Bologna at Brann Stadion.
Brann finished 24th in the league phase to grab the last playoff spot, getting through on goal difference after a 1-0 loss to Sturm Graz in its final game. It’s the Norwegian club’s first time in the knockout rounds of a UEFA competition in nearly 20 years.
Freyr Alexandersson’s side hasn’t won in five straight Europa League matches, despite making it this far. With the Norwegian Eliteserien still on winter break, Brann has played just one competitive match since late January.
Watch Brann vs. Bologna on Paramount+
Bologna comes into the playoffs after finishing 10th in the league phase with 15 points. The Serie A side went unbeaten in seven straight Europa League games and closed the group stage with a 3-0 win over Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Vincenzo Italiano’s side beat Torino 2-1 in Serie A on Sunday and has won three of four Europa League road games this season.
These two clubs did meet in Italy back in November, playing to a scoreless draw.
If you are looking for betting advice for the matchup, we’ve got you covered. Here are the latest odds for the game, courtesy of OddsWire.
Brann vs. Bologna game odds
Brann vs. Bologna prediction, pick
Bologna has less rust and a very solid away record in Europe, which should make the difference in the first leg.
Prediction: Brann 1, Bologna 2
Brann vs. Bologna channel, start time, streaming
- When: Thursday, February 19
- Where: Brann Stadion (Bergen, Norway)
- Time: 12:45 p.m. ET
- Channel/streaming: Paramount+ (WATCH HERE)
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