When Brighton visited Tromso for the Europa Conference League, most people had already named the Premier League side as winners before a ball was kicked, and it is difficult to blame them.
Brighton play in the most successful and toughest league in the world, while Tromso play in the Norwegian Eliteserien, so there is a huge gap in quality between the two teams.
Brighton were also on a fine run of form before the game, and many people expected them to continue their winning streak. However, that is not what happened, as Tromso earned a goalless draw to keep their hopes of causing an upset in the tie alive.
Tromso refuse to give up
------------------------
Few people expected that result, but the Norwegians believed in themselves, and [TV2](https://www.tv2.no/sport/tromso-sjokkerte-brighton-jeg-kommer-til-a-tenke-pa-den-i-natt/19147808/) says they could have even nicked a win if they had not missed some of the chances they created during the game.
The result gives Tromso genuine reason to believe that they can compete with Brighton over the tie. They will now have to produce another disciplined performance when they travel to England, where the challenge is likely to be significantly tougher.
Brighton will have the opportunity to win in front of their supporters and secure their place in the League Phase. They will also be determined to avoid another disappointing result after being unable to break down Tromso in the first meeting.
Tromso can dream of an upset
----------------------------
However, Tromso cannot think that way after such a heroic performance. They have to believe that they can travel to England and come back with a win, which would rank among the biggest upsets in the game.
The goalless draw has already changed expectations around the tie. Brighton remain the favourites, but Tromso have shown that they can frustrate their opponents and create chances of their own.
If the Norwegian side can maintain the belief they showed at home, they could make life extremely difficult for Brighton once again. The Premier League side will expect to finish the job in England, but Tromso now have every reason to believe that they can produce something remarkable.
The second leg will therefore offer Brighton the chance to prove their superiority, while Tromso can continue dreaming of one of the biggest upsets in the competition.