Molde vs Brann Prediction 18.07.2026 | Eliteserien

Molde’s title chase remains a rollercoaster of emotions. Last time out, they were held to a thrilling 2-2 draw on the road against Aalesund in a highly entertaining affair. While the squad’s attacking bite is undeniable, their leaky defense continues to be a major Achilles' heel this season. Sitting on 20 points after 12 games, they are now trailing pace-setters Tromso by eight points, leaving MFK with zero margin for error at home if they want to lift the trophy.

Thankfully for the home faithful, the Aker Stadion has been an absolute fortress lately, with four straight wins proving Molde knows exactly how to dictate games on their own turf. The historical record also heavily favors the hosts, who have come out on top in 18 of their last 28 encounters against Brann. In fact, the last time these two sides met at this venue back in November, Molde cruised to a commanding 4-0 victory.

While young Ghanaian forward Jalal Abdullai remains sidelined through injury, Samukele Kabini is expected to return to the starting lineup after rejoining the squad following his involvement with the South African national team during the FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.

Meanwhile, SK Brann heads into this clash sitting in eight place with 13 points to their name. The Bergen outfit is known for playing a highly entertaining, high-octane brand of football, with 19 of their last 23 Eliteserien fixtures producing over 2.5 goals. That said, their backline has been struggling immensely, leaking goals at such a rate that they have recorded just a single clean sheet all season.

Inconsistency on the road and a lack of killer instinct upfront remain the biggest headaces for the Reds. Even so, Brann has the quality to tear anyone apart on their day, just as they did earlier this term with a stunning 5-0 away demolition of Tromso. Gaffer Eirik Horneland knows Molde’s defense is far from airtight, so expect Brann to take the game to the hosts with a brave and ultra-offensive approach from the first whistle.

While their Saturday opponents have fewer concerns on the injury front, Brann will be without a number of key options, as Nana Kwame Boakye, Denzel De Roeve, Sakarias Opsahl and Icelandic wide players Eggert Aron Gudmundsson and Saevar Atli Magnusson remain in the treatment room.