Bologna starting XI (4-3-3): Skorupski, Zortea, Vitik (subbed for Casale), Lucumì, Joao Mario, Ferguson, Freuler (subbed for Odgaard), Moro (subbed for Sohm), Bernardeschi (subbed for Orsolini), Castro (subbed for Dominguez), Rowe

Bench: Ravaglia, Pessina, Pobega, Heggem, Dallinga, Cambiaghi, Baroncioni

Goals: João Mário 56’

Brann starting XI (4-3-3): Dyngeland, De Roeve, Knudsen, Boakye, Soltvedt (subbed for Dragsnes), Ingason (subbed for Pedersen), Sorensen, Myhre, Mathisen (subbed for Holten), Holm (subbed for Finne), Þorsteinsson (subbed for Haaland)

Bench: Nilsen, Klausen, Wassberg, Sande, Laegreid, Eikrem, Remmem

Red card: Sorensen 37’

The Rossoblù were clinical when it mattered, tipping the balance of a tightly contested knockout fixture and advancing in Europe with a disciplined display.

The game was evenly contested in the first half, with both teams creating scoring opportunities but failing to convert them. Brann looked dangerous at moments and had chances to unsettle the hosts, but they couldn’t find the target and were reduced to ten men in the 37th minute after a studs-up challenge by Jacob Sorensen.

The only goal of the match came after the interval. In the 56th minute, Bologna midfielder João Mário struck with a composed finish to break the deadlock and put the Italian side ahead on the night. That goal proved decisive as Brann, down a man and chasing the game, struggled to muster a sustained response.

For Bologna, progression is a reward for resolute European performances and means a date in the Round of 16 awaits as they seek deeper continental involvement.