Brann vs Aalesund - NM Cupen

All eyes turn to the home ground on April 22, 2026 as Brann welcome Aalesund in a NM Cupen encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. How smooth can you be when receiving the ball, how quickly can you move from the back foot, hips open, face forward and find quality with the pass.

Both camps will view the NM Cupen meeting at the home ground as an opportunity to put a marker down, regardless of where they currently stand. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. The visitors will travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. Tuchel's subs, Rodri's rank, Messi's masterclass - World Cup highs & lows.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Brann may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Aalesund have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. His passing display at the World Cup was yet more evidence of his suitability for City and the possession-heavy style Maresca favours.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. City are also keen on a young striker to develop behind Erling Haaland and offer a different option and are one of the clubs keen on Eli Junior Kroupi, who Bournemouth say is not for sale.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. More than just three points is on the line at the home ground — this is a fixture that could shape the narrative of both clubs' seasons. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".