Norwegian champions Bodø/Glimt pulled off one of the biggest upsets of this season’s UEFA Champions League after eliminating Inter Milan in the playoff round to secure a historic place in the Round of 16.
Inter, who narrowly missed out on automatic qualification to the knockout stage, were forced into a two-legged playoff against the Norwegian side. However, what was expected to be a routine qualification for the Italian giants turned into a stunning upset.
The first leg at the Aspmyra Stadium ended 3–1 in favor of Bodø/Glimt, putting them firmly in control of the tie. In the return fixture, Inter failed to mount a comeback and suffered another defeat, sealing a remarkable aggregate victory for the Norwegian champions.
With this result, Bodø/Glimt have sent shockwaves through the football world, becoming the first Norwegian club to win a Champions League knockout tie, a historic achievement for both the club and Norwegian football.
Their performances in this season’s competition have been nothing short of outstanding. Prior to eliminating Inter, Bodø/Glimt had already claimed impressive victories over European heavyweights Manchester City and Atlético Madrid, underlining their status as this year’s surprise package.
In the Round of 16, Bodø/Glimt could face Sporting CP, Manchester City, or Atlético Madrid as they continue their dream Champions League campaign.
From underdogs to giant-killers, Bodø/Glimt’s fairytale run is quickly becoming one of the stories of the tournament.
By Woli Albert Kwabena