Published: 31 October 2024 at 00:01 Last updated: 31 October 2024 at 00:03
FREDRIKSTAD (Dagsavisen): At the end of regular time in this historic semifinal, it should have been 1–0 to Fredrikstad. It is rare that a goal is so obvious without the referee team catching it.
The Cup Final 2024 features Molde – Fredrikstad and will be played on Saturday, December 7, at Ullevaal Stadium. Akinsola Akinyemi missed KFUM’s last penalty kick and laid flat on the field in front of the wall of FFK supporters who celebrated wildly. These are moments that those involved will never forget.
But it’s over when it comes to picking scapegoats in such matches. It was KFUM’s failure to create anything in this game that became their downfall. At 23:21, the match was decided when Akinyemi laid flat. He was quickly aided to get up. Because this penalty shootout should not have taken place at all.
The big talking point of the match was, of course, Fredrikstad’s goal right before halftime that the referee team did not catch. It’s unfortunate that all TV viewers could confirm that the ball was well inside before Robin Rasch kicked it out. There is no goal-line technology in Norway, and there is no VAR in the cup until we reach the final. But why can’t the referees get help from TV images when there is not a shred of doubt? The regulations do not allow for that.
Referee Kristoffer Hagenes stood right in front of the goal, and from his angle it would have been impossible to see. But the assistant referee failed. Fortunately, it did not prove decisive. KFUM Oslo also progressed in the cup after an NFF decision that went in their favor after the use of an ineligible player in the preliminary rounds. Fredrikstad was the best team in the semifinal and is a worthy participant in its nineteenth (!) final. Eleven of those have been won.
Over 10,500 spectators created a great atmosphere on that late autumn evening, and from a spectator perspective, Fredrikstad is the guarantor of a festive cup final at Ullevaal Stadium during the Advent season. In that respect, the Norwegian Football Federation is probably quite pleased that it will be Molde – Fredrikstad instead of Sandnes Ulf – KFUM Oslo. Although the latter would have been a historical curiosity.
KFUM Oslo showed once again what a mature team it has become, but despite periods of dominant play, they could not create chances in regular time. The first chance came from Amin Nouri after 96 minutes, the second from Simen Hestnes in stoppage time of the second extra period. That is not enough.
But the team has already had a remarkable season behind it, and although it is bitter to be so close to its first final in history, they finish their debut season in the Eliteserien with safety and a lost semifinal. No one foresaw this at the beginning of the season.
Both KFUM and Fredrikstad have been newly promoted this season, and Fredrikstad has sportingly surprised at the same level as KFUM. They could also end up with a title for the first time since the final victory in 2006. Because there is something about the enthusiasm both on and off the pitch with this team. Title holder Molde will be the favorite, but Fredrikstad can strike from below. It is a position they enjoy.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Football Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone! Today, we’re diving into a thrilling moment in Norwegian football history—the recent semifinal match between Fredrikstad and KFUM. Joining us is renowned sports analyst, Lars Dahl, who’s been closely following this season’s cup. Lars, good to have you here!
Lars Dahl: Thank you for having me! It’s always exciting to discuss such pivotal moments in football.
Editor: Let’s talk about that controversial moment—the denied goal by Fredrikstad just before halftime. It seems to have sent shockwaves through the football community. What was your first reaction when you saw the footage?
Dahl: Honestly, it was shocking. The images clearly showed the ball crossing the line before Robin Rasch cleared it. It’s a classic case of human error, and it raises questions about the officiating in cup competitions that lack technology such as VAR or goal-line technology.
Editor: Absolutely. This situation sparks a significant debate about the technology—or lack thereof—at the referees’ disposal. Why do you think Norwegian football hasn’t implemented these technologies more widely, especially in critical matches like this semifinal?
Dahl: Cost is a major factor. Implementation of VAR and goal-line technology requires significant investment, and there has been resistance to change in the past. However, as we saw here, when clear errors can affect the outcome of a match, it’s hard to justify not using available technology. Many fans and players feel that every effort should be made to ensure fair play.
Editor: You mentioned the atmosphere at the game. Over 10,500 spectators created an incredible backdrop, showcasing football’s communal spirit. How much of an impact do you think the fan presence had on both teams?
Dahl: The crowd energy is indescribable in these high-stakes matches. For Fredrikstad, playing in front of such passionate supporters provided a tremendous boost. On the flip side, KFUM may have felt the pressure from the noise and intensity, especially after that missed penalty kick by Akinsola Akinyemi. It plays heavily on the players’ mental state.
Editor: Indeed. Despite the missed calls, Fredrikstad showcased their strength and qualified for their nineteenth cup final, a testament to their quality as a team. What do you think they need to do to prepare for the final against Molde?
Dahl: Preparation will be key. They must maintain their momentum and build on their semifinal performance. It’s essential they also focus on capitalizing on scoring opportunities—no more clearances off the line! Mental resilience will play a massive role; they’ll need to handle the pressure of the occasion.
Editor: Looking ahead to that final, do you think Fredrikstad has a real chance against Molde?
Dahl: They absolutely do. If Fredrikstad brings the same form and intensity they displayed in the semifinal, they can challenge anyone. Molde will be their toughest opponent yet, but football is unpredictable; that’s what makes it so thrilling!
Editor: Fantastic insights, Lars! As we await the cup final on December 7th, the excitement is palpable. Thank you for sharing your expertise today!
Dahl: Thank you for having me! Looking forward to the final—it should be a fantastic match!