Bologna’s 1-0 win in Norway last week was the second in an ongoing three-game winning run, seeing them regain their confidence as we enter the business end of the campaign.
Despite failing to win any of their last six games in all competitions, though, Brann remained in the tie, and they gave as good as they got in the first half.
In fact, they had the better early chances, as Lukasz Skorupski produced a fantastic stop to deny Jón Thorsteinsson before rushing out to block Noah Holm’s poke towards goal, with Remo Freuler then clearing off the line.
There were further chances for the visitors, too, as Ulrik Mathisen shot wide following some quick feet in the box.
For all of their territory and possession, Bologna struggled to create opportunities, but they were given a huge helping hand less than 10 minutes before half time when Jacob Sorensen was shown a straight red card for catching Freuler with a high boot.
Still, Brann showed they would remain a threat even with a man less, with Þorsteinsson drawing a brilliant leaping save out of Skorupski before the interval.
The pattern the game would follow for the majority of the second half was set immediately after the restart, as Brann attempted to hit their opponents on the counterattack while Bologna dictated the tempo.
Unlike the first half, though, the Pride of Bergen failed to carve out any real openings, with the Rossoblù instead creating more danger. And, while Mathias Dyngeland did well to push Jhon Lucumí’s header over the crossbar, the Italian outfit were in front moments later.
Brann were unable to sufficiently clear Rowe’s cross into the box, and Joao Mario was waiting to take a touch and volley into the corner to give his side total control of the tie.
Brann were clearly eager to find a way back into the game, but momentum was against them, and Bologna continued to threaten. Having started on the bench, Riccardo Orsolini was introduced and was a danger, yet he couldn’t put the game to bed on the night.
Still, the two-goal lead for Bologna across the tie allowed them to comfortably see the game out, and they can now look forward to a last 16 meeting with either fellow Serie A side AS Roma or Germany’s SC Freiburg.
Brann, meanwhile, have won just one of their 13 European knockout games, and they will now turn their attention to the Norwegian top flight, which kicks off in March.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Joao Mario (Bologna)