The intensity of the UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds kicks off with an intriguing clash as Norwegian side SK Brann host Austrian giants Red Bull Salzburg in the first leg of their second qualifying round tie. This crucial encounter is set for today, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, with kick-off at 6:00 PM BST (8:00 PM EAT in Kenya). The Brann Stadion in Bergen, Norway, will be the battleground for this opening leg.
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The Stakes: A Step Towards European Glory
This is a vital fixture for both clubs as they embark on their quest to reach the prestigious and lucrative UEFA Champions League group stage. The winner of this two-legged tie will advance to the third qualifying round, with the ultimate goal of playing amongst Europe's elite.
SK Brann are currently midway through their 2025 Norwegian Eliteserien season, sitting third in the table. This means they are more match-fit than their Austrian counterparts. Brann have been in solid form domestically, winning three of their last four league matches, although they did suffer a 2-0 defeat to KFUM Oslo in their most recent domestic fixture. Their home form at Brann Stadion is particularly strong, as they are unbeaten in nine of their last ten matches there, winning the last four. This marks Brann's first Champions League fixture in 17 years, having last entered UCL qualifying in 2008-09. They will be heavily relying on their home advantage and current match sharpness.
Red Bull Salzburg are the perennial Austrian champions and regular participants in the Champions League group stage, having reached this phase in each of the last six seasons. This will be their first official fixture of the new season, following a pre-season that included participation in the FIFA Club World Cup. Their pre-season has been mixed, including a 3-0 loss to Real Madrid and a 0-0 draw with Al-Hilal in the Club World Cup, and a recent 2-1 friendly defeat to Derby County. Despite this, Salzburg possess significant European experience and a talented squad. Key players like Dorgeles Nene, who finished with 13 goals last season, will be crucial for their attacking threat. They will aim to get a vital away goal and set themselves up for the second leg at home.
Head-to-Head: A Historic First Encounter
This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between SK Brann and Red Bull Salzburg. This adds an extra layer of intrigue, as neither side will have direct experience playing against the other. Both teams will have to rely on their scouting and tactical analysis to prepare for this historic clash.
Key Players and Tactical Approaches
Both coaches will be aiming to get a positive result in this first leg, balancing attacking ambition with defensive solidity.
SK Brann will leverage their home advantage and current match fitness. They are expected to play with high energy and aim to press Salzburg, disrupting their rhythm. Their strong home record suggests they will be aggressive, looking to take an early lead in the tie. Players like Bård Finne and Felix Horn Myhre will be key in midfield and attack, while their defensive unit will need to be resolute against Salzburg's quality.
Red Bull Salzburg will look to bring their Champions League experience to bear. Despite it being their first competitive match of the season, they are known for their fast-paced, attacking football. They will aim to control possession, create chances through their dynamic forwards, and secure a crucial away goal. Coach Thomas Letsch will be keen to see his team's quality shine through, even if they are not yet at peak match sharpness. Salzburg has a history of scoring on the road, but also conceding, having kept no clean sheets in their last four away matches.
Expect a competitive and potentially open game, with both teams looking to make a statement in this first leg. Substitutions will likely be made to manage player fitness and introduce fresh legs.
Where to Watch: Official Channels and Online Resources
Specific broadcast information for Champions League qualifiers can sometimes be localized. However, here are likely options:
Club Websites/Official Channels: Both SK Brann and Red Bull Salzburg might offer streams of the match on their official websites or club TV platforms, potentially on a pay-per-view basis.
Sports Broadcasting Networks: Check major sports broadcasters in Norway (e.g., TV2 Sport) and Austria (e.g., ServusTV, Sky Sport Austria) as they often carry Champions League qualifying matches.
UEFA.tv: In some regions, UEFA's official streaming platform, UEFA.tv, might provide live coverage or highlights.
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The Countdown to Kick-Off
The Champions League qualifier between Brann and RB Salzburg is a fascinating encounter pitting a match-fit Norwegian side with a strong home record against an experienced, talented Austrian champion. This first-ever meeting promises to be a tactical battle, with both teams eager to gain an advantage ahead of the second leg.
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