Brighton held to stalemate in Conference League play-off first leg | OneFootball

Brighton & Hove Albion were held to a goalless draw by Tromso in a tense Conference League play-off first leg in Norway.

Playing their first competitive game of the season, Fabian Hurzeler’s side dominated possession but struggled to turn their control into clear-cut chances against a well-organised Tromso defence.

Georginio Rutter came closest for Brighton in the first half, while Ibrahim Osman also tested goalkeeper Jakob Haugaard, who produced two smart diving saves. At the other end, Bart Verbruggen had to be alert to deny Heine Larsen after the forward beat Brighton’s high line.

The Seagulls continued to push after the break, with substitute Charalampos Kostoulas heading narrowly over late on, but Tromso threatened again on the counter as Isak Vadebu fired wide after finding space behind the Brighton defence.

Brighton now know a win at home next Thursday will send them into the Conference League league phase. Before then, Hurzeler’s side begin their Premier League campaign at home to Aston Villa on Sunday.