Torreense make European debut count with 2-1 win at Lillestrøm
Torreense continued their remarkable rise with a 2-1 win over Lillestrøm at Åråsen Stadion in their first-ever Europa League match.
The Portuguese second-tier side became the first club outside a top flight to win a match in the current Europa League format, producing a disciplined display away from home against opponents who began the night with plenty of confidence.
Match highlight
Lillestrøm had more of the ball early on and their supporters expected the home side to make that control count. But they struggled to create clear openings and looked vulnerable when Torreense broke forward.
The first real chance fell to Torreense. Malik Abubakari found space in a promising position but dragged his shot well wide of the post.
Lillestrøm then tested goalkeeper Adriel through Ylldren Ibrahimaj, whose bouncing effort was dealt with. The hosts were caught out immediately afterward.
A smart move sent David Bruno clear on the right and his accurate cross found Alex Alfaro unmarked in the area. Alfaro headed home to score Torreense’s first goal in European competition and silence the home crowd.
Lillestrøm grew increasingly frustrated as Torreense disrupted their rhythm and slowed the game down when needed. The visitors went into half-time with a 1-0 lead and showed no signs of being overawed by the occasion.
They doubled their advantage soon after the restart. This time the attack came down the left, where a deep ball found Manu Pozo. The forward brought it under control before striking a fine shot into the near corner past Pontus Dahlberg.
Lillestrøm manager Hans Erik Ødegaard made three changes just after the hour as his side searched for a way back. One of those substitutions had an immediate impact.
With a little over 10 minutes left, Felix Va sent an overhit cross back across goal and Thomas Lehne Olsen was on hand to tap in from close range.
The goal gave Lillestrøm fresh belief, and that belief grew when Torreense substitute Nuha Jatta was shown a second yellow card only 20 minutes after coming on.
The Norwegian side pushed hard in the closing stages, but Torreense held firm to leave with three points. The result gives the Portuguese side a strong start in the battle to progress, with nine points often enough to reach the next phase.
Lillestrøm are left playing catch-up before a difficult trip to Sparta Prague in their next Europa League fixture.
