UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, Bode/Glimt has defeated Inter Milan 2-1 in the UEFA Champions League playoff, securing a place in the knockout stages for the first time in history. The match, held on February 24, 2026, marks a monumental achievement for the small Norwegian club.
Just six days prior, Bode/Glimt triumphed over Inter on their home turf with a decisive 3-1 victory. Over the span of 180 minutes, they never trailed, showcasing their resilience against a team boasting a much higher budget and experience.
This victory is not just a feather in the cap for Bode/Glimt; it represents a significant milestone for Norwegian football, highlighting the potential of smaller clubs to challenge elite teams. Coach Kjetil Knutsen, who has led the team since 2018, praised the accomplishment, stating, “This is a historic moment for Bode and, I believe, for Norwegian football.”
Jens Peter Hauge, the standout forward, played a pivotal role, netting his sixth goal of the Champions League season and assisting Håkon Evjen for another stunning strike. “It sounds unreal, but we are among the last 16 teams in this competition,” Hauge expressed after the match, emphasizing the excitement for the upcoming challenges.
Next, Bode/Glimt will face either Manchester City or Sporting CP in the round of 16, adding more intrigue to their Cinderella story. The team’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable, having previously defeated football giants like Manchester City and Atlético Madrid to reach the playoffs.
This season, Bode/Glimt has become the first Norwegian team to advance from the group stage of the Champions League, a feat not achieved since Lillestrøm in 1987. Their streak includes four consecutive wins against teams from Europe’s top five leagues, a record last seen with AFC Ajax in the 1971-72 season.
The success is even more impressive considering Bode/Glimt began the group stage with six winless matches. Their ability to bounce back and shock the football world is a testament to their relentless spirit and tactical prowess.
Playing in extreme Arctic conditions has become an unexpected advantage for Bode/Glimt. The team’s home ground, characterized by challenging weather, has left many European rivals unprepared. As the captain Patrik Berg remarked, “For the club and the city, this is truly incredible. I don’t think people believed we could beat Manchester City, Atlético, and now Inter twice.”
Coach Knutsen’s vision of success transcends mere victories; it serves as inspiration for smaller clubs everywhere. “I hope we can show that if we can do this, then anyone can,” he stated, encapsulating the essence of their journey.
Bode/Glimt’s remarkable ascent in European football is a story of determination and hope, proving that size does not dictate success on the pitch. As they prepare for their next match, fans and football enthusiasts around the world eagerly await to see how far this “little” club can go in the Champions League.
