Tromsø travel to the Czech Republic on Thursday knowing they must overturn a one-goal deficit if they are to keep their UEFA Europa League campaign alive against Hradec Králové.

Last week’s first leg looked destined to end goalless until Mick van Buren struck five minutes from time to hand the Czech side a precious 1-0 victory. It was a harsh outcome for Tromsø, who missed a first-half penalty and created enough opportunities to leave Norway with at least a draw.

The tie remains firmly within reach, but the momentum now belongs to Hradec. With a place in the third qualifying round at stake, Tromsø must produce one of their strongest European performances in recent years.

Hradec have given themselves the platform they wanted

Hradec Králové could hardly have scripted a better return from Norway. David Horejš’s side defended resolutely for long spells before taking advantage of one decisive moment late in the game, leaving them just 90 minutes from another step forward in what has already become a memorable period for the club.

European football has returned after more than three decades away, and last season’s fifth-place finish now looks increasingly like the beginning of something rather than an isolated achievement. The confidence generated by that progress was evident again at the weekend when Hradec opened their domestic campaign with a 2-1 victory over Pardubice, extending their unbeaten run and ensuring morale remains high ahead of Thursday’s second leg.

Van Buren’s winner in Tromsø was followed by another goal in league action, making the experienced forward the obvious danger man once again. Around him, Horejš has assembled a disciplined, well-drilled side that rarely loses its shape and has become increasingly comfortable playing without dominating possession.

The challenge now is psychological rather than tactical. Protecting a narrow lead often changes the dynamic of a tie, and Hradec must strike the right balance between defending their advantage and avoiding becoming pinned back inside their own half.

Tromsø need a response after missed opportunities

There was understandable frustration in the Tromsø dressing room after the opening leg. Jørgen Vik’s side produced enough football to justify a better result but were ultimately punished for failing to take their chances. Jens Hjerto-Dahl’s missed penalty proved particularly costly, and the late concession transformed what could have been an encouraging away trip into a difficult assignment.

The Norwegian side arrive in the Czech Republic, however, with every reason to believe they can turn the tie around. Their domestic campaign has been built on resilience, intelligent pressing and an attack capable of overwhelming opponents when confidence begins to flow. Sitting among the Eliteserien’s leading clubs is no accident, and their defensive record remains one of the strongest in Norway despite the occasional heavy defeat against elite opposition.

Unlike their hosts, Tromsø were able to focus solely on preparing for this match after enjoying a free weekend, giving Vik valuable time to analyse the first leg and freshen up his squad. Daniel Braut could return to the starting line-up to provide a more physical presence in attack, while Hjerto-Dahl will be determined to make amends after his penalty miss.

The visitors know they cannot allow frustration to dictate the evening. One goal would completely reset the tie, and there is little incentive to chase the game recklessly during the early stages.

Verdict

Last week’s result leaves Tromsø with a difficult challenge, but certainly not an impossible one. Hradec Králové deserve credit for their discipline in Norway and will be backed by a home crowd sensing another memorable European night. Even so, protecting a single-goal advantage can become an awkward task if the visitors settle quickly and force the home side onto the back foot.

Expect Tromsø to produce a stronger attacking display than they managed in the closing stages of the first leg, but Hradec have shown enough composure over the past week to suggest they can withstand the pressure and find a way through over the two matches.

Tip

Hradec Králové to qualify.