Paul Ngongo found the net as Aalesunds FK booked their place in the quarter-finals of the Norwegian Cup with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over top-tier side HamKam.
The 2nd division outfit continued their impressive cup run by holding their Eliteserien opponents to a 2-2 draw over 90 minutes before prevailing 6-5 in a tense shootout.
It marks another significant scalp for Aalesunds, who had previously eliminated reigning Norwegian champions Bodø/Glimt earlier in the competition.
Ngongo, who delivered a standout performance, gave Aalesunds the lead in the 34th minute with a well-taken finish. It was his first goal in this season’s cup competition and his second across all competitions.
His contribution was pivotal in setting the tone for a high-energy and determined display by the underdogs.
Aalesunds, currently playing in the Norwegian First Division, have been in exceptional form throughout the season and are yet to taste defeat across league and cup matches.
Their latest victory not only reinforces their status as this year’s surprise package but also highlights their growing confidence and cohesion as a squad.
Having already dispatched one of the country’s most formidable sides in Bodø/Glimt, semi-finalists in the UEFA Europa League this season, Aalesunds once again proved they are more than capable of holding their own against elite-level competition. Their continued success in the tournament is becoming one of the stories of the Norwegian football season.
Despite their cup exploits, Aalesunds remain firmly focused on their primary objective: securing survival in the domestic league.
With the Norwegian First Division campaign ongoing, the club is balancing a deep cup run with the realities of a competitive second-tier season.
Next up in the league is a crucial fixture against IK Start, scheduled for Saturday 24 May.
While the glamour and excitement of a potential cup semi-final may loom on the horizon, Aalesunds are fully aware of the importance of maintaining consistency in the league to ensure their long-term stability.
Speaking after the match, team officials and players praised the squad’s composure and fighting spirit, particularly in the shootout.
The victory not only boosts morale but also underscores the depth of talent in a side that is beginning to defy pre-season expectations.
As they await the draw for the quarter-finals, Paul Ngongo and his teammates can take pride in a performance that has further enhanced their reputation. For Ngongo personally, the goal represents a timely reminder of his attacking quality and may well serve as a catalyst for further contributions as Aalesunds aim to keep their unbeaten run intact.
With momentum firmly on their side, Aalesunds FK now look ahead to both their league commitments and the next stage of the Norwegian Cup, determined to continue their remarkable journey in both competitions.
