Football Bet of the Day: Back visitors to stay in touch in lively game

Brann v Arouca
Thursday 17 August, 18:00

Corinthians saw their long unbeaten run ended last night, and they took us down with them as they crashed out of the Copa do Brasil at the semi-final stage courtesy of a 2-0 defeat at Sao Paulo. Muttering some Portuguese curses, we head for the airport and board a flight to Bergen in Norway. The local club Brann are up against Arouca in the Europa Conference League qualifiers, and I have a Bet Builder in mind.

Last season was a remarkable one for Brann, as they won the second division title, and remarkably won the Norwegian Cup. Former Rosenborg assistant Eirik Horneland (stop sniggering at the back) has worked wonders, and Brann are certainly not floundering at a higher level. SK are fifth in the Eliterserien, only three points behind the champions Molde.

However, Brann's recent form has dipped a little. They have won just three of their last eight league games, and in the first leg of this tie they were downed 2-1 in Portugal against Arouca. In their last home game in the league they lost 2-0 to Viking.

Arouca have only just started their season really, but they look strong after last term's surprise fifth-placed finish. The Arouquenses were unbeaten in pre-season, they beat Rio Ave in the Taca da Liga, overcame Brann and also won their league opener 4-3 against Estoril, coming from behind on three occasions.

We can use the Bet Builder to back Arouca +2 on the Handicap, Over 2.5 Goals and Over 7.5 Corners at 2.942/1 on the Sportsbook. Even if Arouca lose 2-1 or 3-2 and the tie goes to extra time, we would still be ok. The first leg featured eight corners, and Brann will have to chase the game at some stage.

Arouca have scored eight goals in their first three games, while Brann have seen an Over 2.5 Goals bet land in 17 of their 26 competitive matches this term.