Atlason Hat-Trick Fires Stjarnan to 3-1 Comeback Win

Stjarnan roared back from an early deficit to thrash Vikingur Gota 3-1 in their UEFA Europa Conference League first qualifying round first leg, Einar Atlason’s hat-trick turning the tie on its head after Arni Benjaminsen had given the Faroese visitors a shock lead.

Vikingur Gota Stun Stjarnan Early

The Icelandic hosts were caught cold after just 12 minutes when Benjaminsen latched onto Andrias Ellingsgaard’s through ball, slotting past the keeper to silence the Gardabaer crowd. Stjarnan’s frustration grew as they struggled to break down Vikingur’s compact defence, Hordur Aegisson hooked before the half-hour mark in a tactical switch that proved pivotal.

Atlason Sparks Stjarnan Revival

The game turned three minutes before half-time when Vikingur captain Johansen clipped an attacker in the box – Atlason burying the penalty to level. The visitors’ discipline unravelled after the break: Vatnhamar and Benjaminsen both booked in quick succession before Atlason struck again on 66 minutes, meeting Waren’s cross with a thunderous header. Twelve minutes later, the striker completed his treble from the spot after another clumsy challenge, sending the home fans into raptures.

Stjarnan Take Commanding Lead

Vikingur’s misery was compounded by Jarnskor’s late booking as their defensive solidity evaporated. Stjarnan’s substitutions saw them comfortably over the line, the Icelandic side now heavy favourites heading into next week’s second leg in the Faroe Islands. For Atlason, a night of personal glory; for Vikingur, a mountain to climb after throwing away their early advantage.