Fredrikstad manager Andreas Hagen expressed pride in his side’s display against Crystal Palace in the Europa Conference League play-off last night. Entering the contest as underdogs, Fredrikstad produced a performance that kept the tie alive and showed they would not be brushed aside easily.
Many had expected Palace to win comfortably, given their Premier League status and superior resources, but Fredrikstad’s resilience challenged that assumption. They defended with determination and applied their tactical plan effectively, making life more difficult than anticipated for the English side.
Fredrikstad’s Resilient Display in London
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From the beginning, Crystal Palace controlled possession and created early opportunities, yet Fredrikstad showed focus and discipline in their defensive shape. The Norwegian side absorbed the pressure, closing spaces and frustrating Palace throughout the first half. Despite several promising chances for the home team, the match remained goalless at the break.
After the restart, Palace eventually found a breakthrough and scored the decisive goal, but Fredrikstad did not lose composure. They continued to defend in numbers while also looking for opportunities to test their opponents when possible. Although the visitors could not secure an equaliser, they ensured the contest stayed finely balanced.
The 1-0 result keeps the Norwegian side in the tie and gives them hope of overturning the deficit in the return leg on home soil, where the support of their fans could play a significant role.
Hagen’s Praise for His Players
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Hagen was quick to acknowledge the effort and commitment of his squad, noting the importance of sticking to the game plan despite facing one of the toughest opponents of their season. Speaking to [VG](https://www.vg.no/sport/i/8qgwbG/fredrikstad-tapte-i-london-mateta-matchvinner-for-crystal-palace), he said:
“We have to defend a lot and for a long time, but I think we do it well. Yes, they have some big chances there, but all in all it is a fantastic effort from the guys.”
Fredrikstad now look ahead to the second leg with renewed belief. While Palace remain favourites, the narrow margin ensures the Norwegian club can still dream of producing an upset. The tie remains open, and both teams will approach the return fixture knowing it is far from decided.