Ousmane Sow opened his Brøndby career with a decisive goal in a 1‑1 preseason friendly against Piast Gliwice on 17 January 2026, showcasing immediate attacking impact and giving Steve Cooper a clear view of his refreshed squad ahead of the 2026‑27 season.
Debut Goal Highlights Sow’s Immediate Impact
The breakthrough came early in the second half when right‑back Sean Klaiber delivered a low cut‑back into the box. The 23‑year‑old French‑Senegalese forward slipped the ball between the goalkeeper’s legs and tucked it home, restoring parity for Brøndby and announcing his arrival with a statement finish.
How the Goal Unfolded
Sow’s composure under pressure, quick first‑touch, and clinical finish demonstrated why Brøndby signed him this winter. The goal was not merely a statistic; it was a clear indicator of his ability to adapt instantly to the Danish league’s tempo.
Tactical Experiments Under Steve Cooper
Coach Steve Cooper used the match as a laboratory for his preferred 4‑3‑5 attacking shape. The back four featured experienced centre‑backs Johan Kragh and Jacob Miller, with Klaiber on the right and Patrick Killer on the left. In midfield, veteran Paul Kjaer anchored the trio while newcomer Bartosz Slisz linked defence to attack.
Formation and Key Roles
Viggo Poulsen stepped into the advanced midfield role, covering for the absent Noah Nartey and providing creative outlet. The front three—Patrick Killer, Ousmane Sow and Jores Gustavsson—pressed high, aiming to replicate the aggressive style that secured Brøndby’s recent Danish Superliga title.
Piast Gliwice’s Counter‑Attack and Set‑Piece Goal
Piast took the lead in the 27th minute from a well‑executed corner, with centre‑back Mateusz Kowalczyk rising to head the ball past the Brøndby keeper. After scoring, the Polish side retreated into a compact block, absorbing pressure and seeking quick counters through winger Tomasz Mikulski.
Implications for Brøndby’s Upcoming Season
- Offensive upgrade: Sow adds pace, power and a reliable finishing option beyond traditional strikers.
- Midfield dynamism: Slisz’s immediate integration provides a versatile link for Cooper’s high‑press system.
- Depth and flexibility: Poulsen’s performance in the creative midfield slot ensures coverage for injuries or rotations.
What’s Next for Both Clubs
Brøndby will close its preseason with a test against a Swedish side, where Cooper plans to fine‑tune the defensive line and explore alternative attacking formations. Piast Gliwice returns to Poland for a derby clash, using the friendly as a benchmark for their own preparation ahead of the Ekstraklasa restart.
