Second-tier IL Hødd upset the odds to overcome Tromsø IL on penalties in the Norwegian Cup final and earn themselves a qualifying berth for the 2013/14 UEFA Europa League.
Kjell Rune Sellin scored Hødd's opener
Second-tier IL Hødd have won the Norwegian Cup for the first time in their history after overcoming Tromsø IL 4-2 on penalties in the final, a success that will put them among the entrants for the 2013/14 UEFA Europa League.
Hødd, who only maintained their second-tier status on the final day of the season, initially struggled to gain a foothold in the match as Tromsø controlled possession with confidence. They quickly settled into their own rhythm after the break, though, and took the lead when Kjell Rune Sellin took receipt of Erik Sandal's defence-splitting pass and slotted in.
Per Mathias Høgmo's charges rallied and almost drew level when veteran striker Ole Martin Årst forced Ørjan Håskjold Nyland into a fine save. The Hødd goalkeeper then repeated his heroics five minutes later, this time denying Zdeněk Ondrášek from point-blank range. Saliou Ciss finally ended Hødd's resolve three minutes from time, however, turning in Remi Johansen's centre.
With neither side were able to forge ahead in extra time, the showpiece was decided by penalties. While Ciss blasted wide for Tromsø, Andreas Rekdal kept his composure to score the decisive spot kick.
What an amazing story this is for IL Hødd. First they barely survive relegation to the Norwegian Third tier on the final day of the season and only a few weeks later they win the cup and have a spot in the 2013-14 Europa League.
