Efficient Randers punish Brøndby’s possession-heavy game

Brøndby had the ball, but Randers FC had the chances and the goals. The visitors won 3-0 at Brøndby Stadium, turning an energetic pressing game and dangerous counterattacks into a convincing away victory.

Randers made the ideal start. After winning possession high up the field, the ball reached Elies Mahmoud, who shot from distance and found the net via the post. Brøndby gradually took control of the match, but its possession produced little danger. Mads Frøkjær-Jensen had one major opportunity, though his finish lacked power.

Brøndby dominated the final 15 minutes of the first half, yet Randers appeared to score again from a set piece shortly before the break. A VAR review ruled out the goal for offside, sparing the home side a two-goal deficit.

The pattern continued after halftime. Brøndby pushed forward in search of openings, while Randers waited for counterattacking opportunities. The visitors proved far more effective in that phase. Paul Izzo faced few demanding shots, and Brøndby’s attempts rarely hit the target. Randers also benefited from fortune when Mike Themsen’s 66th-minute goal took a deflection and struck the post before going in.

Thomas Nørgaard pushed Brøndby even further forward, but a turnover in the buildup five minutes later sent substitute Mohamed Sankoh through from midfield. He scored the final goal, leaving Randers with the points and Brøndby with a result that raised fresh concerns after a promising start under its new coach.