Lillestrøm scoreless after VAR nullifies goal and open-net miss

Lillestrøm faces an uphill battle in their Europa League playoff after a goalless draw against KF Egnatia in Albania. The Norwegian side struggled to find the net, extending their winless streak to five matches across all competitions.

The match in Rrogozhine could have swung either way. Lillestrøm had a golden opportunity in the second half when winger Felix Vá pounced on a loose ball and shot towards an open goal from the edge of the penalty area, only to see it drift wide. Earlier, Gustav Nyheim and captain Ruben Gabrielsen also had chances, with Gabrielsen's header hitting the woodwork.

Adding to Lillestrøm's frustration, a potential early goal from Gabrielsen, following a free-kick, was disallowed by VAR for a marginal offside call. The Albanian champions also created dangerous moments, particularly before halftime, forcing saves from goalkeeper Pontus Dahlberg.

With the return leg scheduled for Åråsen stadium in a week, Lillestrøm must find a way to break down Egnatia's defense and secure a victory to advance in the competition. The team's recent form suggests a significant challenge lies ahead.