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The HTU Fed Gauntlet: A New Chapter Unfolds in the Playoff Saga

As the HTU Fed Gauntlet playoffs continue to electrify the footballing world, Round 3 brought a mix of tactical brilliance, individual flair, and heartbreak. With the winners' bracket narrowing down to its semi-finalists, the losers' bracket has become a battleground of resilience and redemption. Two standout matches stole the show in this round—SK Brann's inspired victory over Viking Særløse and The Flaming Wodkas FC's measured triumph against Kigali Team.

Brann Outmuscle Viking Særløse in a Sunny Thriller

In a match played under sunny skies, SK Brann showed their class against a resilient Viking Særløse. With a 4-2 victory, Brann have solidified their place as one of the most dangerous sides in the losers' bracket.

Brann took early control, scoring twice in the first 21 minutes through Mats Claesson and Knut Belsvik. However, Viking Særløse fought back admirably, equalising at 2-2 with goals from Yiorgos Koustas and Frederik Frandsen.

It wasn’t until the latter stages of the match that Brann reasserted their dominance. Tore Hoffmann’s brilliant solo effort in the 83rd minute gave Brann the lead, while Claesson sealed the deal with a header a minute later. Brann’s ability to dominate possession (63%) and execute their wing-focused attack was pivotal, while Viking Særløse’s counterattacking style struggled to sustain momentum.

The Flaming Wodkas FC Blaze Past Kigali Team

Over at the Jules Michelet Arena, The Flaming Wodkas FC maintained their dream of Gauntlet glory with a 2-0 win over Kigali Team. The sweltering heat didn’t hinder FWFC’s technical players, who showed composure and brilliance when it mattered most.

The first half ended goalless, but the second half saw FWFC turn on the style. Frej 'Heatseeker' Bokflod broke the deadlock in the 64th minute with a stunning volley, followed by Yossef 'Shootingstar' Visuli’s spectacular long-range effort eight minutes later.

Despite Kigali enjoying a slight edge in possession (52%) and creating more chances (7 to FWFC’s 4), they were unable to break down FWFC’s formidable defence. The Flaming Wodkas FC now march forward with momentum, buoyed by their cohesive team effort and tactical discipline.

The Road Ahead: Losers’ Bracket Intensifies

With these results, SK Brann and The Flaming Wodkas FC have set up a mouthwatering clash in the losers' bracket semi-final. This matchup promises to be a battle of attacking philosophies, with Brann’s wing play meeting FWFC’s technical precision. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as the winner will edge one step closer to the coveted Gauntlet final.

Meanwhile, in the winners' bracket, FC Addis and Tactical Assassins prepare for a high-stakes semi-final showdown. Both teams remain undefeated, and the winner will secure a direct route to the grand final.

The HTU Fed Gauntlet is entering its most dramatic phase yet. Will Brann’s resilience shine through? Can FWFC’s dream run continue? And who will emerge victorious in the winners' bracket? Stay tuned for more twists, turns, and unforgettable moments.