Brighton kicked off their campaign with a 0-0 stalemate against their Norwegian opponents.
Here are five observations from the Romssa Arena clash.
Contrasting feelings
Brighton’s squad reacted positively to a passionate rendition of Sussex By The Sea following their goalless season opener.
Nevertheless, an air of frustration lingered as they departed the venue.
Brighton’s support occupied a corner section on the far side of the pitch from the media area throughout the encounter.
Journalists were positioned adjacent to the fervent Tromso Ultras stand, though all home supporters rose to their feet and applauded during the closing stages.
Continental pedigree
Ibrahim Osman and Malick Yalcouye were included in Brighton’s starting eleven following successful Championship loan spells.
Both possess substantial experience in UEFA club competitions, including the Champions League, from their former clubs.
Each looked impressive, with Yalcouye active in the centre of the park and Osman posing a threat out wide.
Pitch conditions
The synthetic surface received extensive watering prior to kick-off.
The sprinklers were only deactivated for a brief period when the squads emerged for their warm-up routines.
Water appeared to be kicked up by several passes played along the ground.
Upon walking the touchline after full-time, the surface felt notably springy.
It may even have felt softer than the advanced grass pitch Brighton use at the Amex.
Crucial figure
Both shot-stoppers excelled, with Bart Verbruggen producing a vital late intervention and Jakob Haugaard stretching high to thwart Ibrahim Osman with the finest of his three impressive saves.
Haugaard, dominant when claiming crosses and clever with his left foot, had been a major doubt beforehand due to a thigh problem.
However, he appeared fully fit and will prove invaluable in multiple ways for Tromso in the second leg.
Welcomed guests
Tromso supporters gathered after the final whistle to watch Brighton’s squad make their way from the stadium to their waiting coach.
Everyone sought photographs, signatures, or simply a brief conversation.
Brighton’s players, despite their tiredness, obliged graciously, pausing to speak and smile with well-wishers.