prwe.com
After their stunning first-leg victory, the hosts will likely be prone to a few sloppy moments. Red Bull Salzburg has one foot in the third qualifying round of the Champions League. In the 4-1 first leg win in Norway against Brann, the Austrian former serial champions impressed not only with their effectiveness, but also with their efficiency. Even though Brann played quite bravely at home, Salzburg showed flashes of the skill that has characterized them for years. Brann may have the advantage of already being in the league, but that alone will hardly be enough to make up for the clear 1-4 defeat from the first leg. From a Norwegian perspective, a true miracle is unlikely. Brann has never won an away match in the Champions League in it's club history. The Austrian serial champions appeared too solid, too well-rehearsed and too dominant in the first encounter. Despite the comfortable 4-1 first-leg victory Red Bull Salzburg is unlikely to have a particularly successful season in the long run. Three key players left the club in July without adequate replacements being signed. Defender Samson Baidoo moved to Lens for 8 million euros, full-back Amar Dedic moved to Benfica for 12 million euros and midfield engine Nicolas Capaldo went to Hamburger for 3 million euros. Things could turn around if the team progress in the group phase we could see quality new names in the squad.
