UPDATE: Bode/Glimt has made history by defeating Inter Milan in a stunning upset, securing their place in the Champions League Round of 16! Just last night, the team from the Arctic Circle triumphed with a 2-1 victory at the famed San Siro, adding to their 3-1 win at home just six days prior.
This remarkable feat marks a significant moment not only for Bode/Glimt but also for Norwegian football. Under the leadership of coach Kjetil Knutsen, Bode/Glimt has defied expectations since their return to the top tier of Norwegian football, winning four consecutive league titles from 2020 to 2024.
In a thrilling play-off clash, Bode/Glimt showcased their resilience against the three-time European champions. They never trailed throughout the two-legged match, demonstrating tactical prowess and a fearless spirit.
“This is a historic moment for Bode and for Norwegian football,” said Knutsen after the match. The coach has been at the helm since 2018, guiding the team through an extraordinary rise to prominence.
Star player Jens Petter Hauge, who netted his sixth Champions League goal this season, played a pivotal role in the victory. He assisted Håkon Evjen‘s brilliant strike, further solidifying his status as a key contributor.
“It sounds unreal, but we are here, among the 16 teams in such a competition,” Hauge expressed, reflecting the excitement felt by the entire squad. Bode/Glimt now awaits their next opponent in the knockout phase, potentially facing giants like Manchester City or Sporting Lisbon.
This achievement is even more impressive given Bode/Glimt’s challenging start to the season, where they went without a win in their first six group matches. Their journey to the knockout stage included shocking victories over Manchester City and Atlético Madrid, underscoring their underdog status.
The club is also recognized for being the first Norwegian team to advance past the group stage since Lillestrøm in the late 1980s. Bode/Glimt is the first team outside the top five European leagues to win four consecutive Champions League matches against clubs from those leagues since Ajax in the 1971/72 season.
As they prepare for the Round of 16, Bode/Glimt hopes to inspire other smaller clubs with their remarkable journey. “If we can do this, then so can others,” Knutsen remarked, embodying the indomitable spirit of a team that continues to surprise the football world.
The excitement around Bode/Glimt’s success is palpable, and fans are eager to see how far this “little” club can go in the prestigious Champions League. The fairy tale continues as they strive for even greater heights in European football.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Bode/Glimt’s Champions League adventure unfolds!
