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Bodo/Glimt stuns Inter Milan in historic Champions League upset

Feb 24, 2026, 11:43 PM20
(Update: Feb 25, 2026, 1:06 PM)
association football club in Milan, Italy
building in Rana, Northern Norway

Bodo/Glimt stuns Inter Milan in historic Champions League upset

  • Bodo/Glimt achieved a historic 5-2 aggregate victory against Inter Milan in the Champions League knockouts.
  • This victory marks the first Norwegian club to win a knockout tie in the European Cup or Champions League since 1987-88.
  • The success of Bodo/Glimt highlights the significant disparities in European football and prompts discussions on the competition's future.
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In Norway, the underdog football team Bodo/Glimt achieved a historic milestone by defeating Inter Milan, a major contender in the Champions League, in the knockout stage. This remarkable accomplishment occurred after a 5-2 aggregate victory which not only captivated their home country but also sent shockwaves across Europe. Last year, Bodo/Glimt had already made headlines as the first Norwegian team to reach the semi-finals of a European competition, displaying a steady rise from the second tier of Norwegian football in 2017 to becoming a formidable force in the continental arena. Under the guidance of head coach Kjetil Knutsen, Bodo/Glimt’s strategic approach combined with a tight-knit team spirit has enabled them to excel against much wealthier opponents. Despite operating on a lower budget, their victory over Inter Milan signifies a crucial moment for Norwegian football, representing the first time since the 1987-88 season that a Norwegian club has won a knockout tie in the European Cup or Champions League. Jens Petter Hauge stood out as their top player, scoring crucial goals during the campaign, and is part of a dedicated team that emphasizes unity and hard work. The achievement of Bodo/Glimt also raises significant questions about the state of football in Europe. While their success enriches the narrative of the Champions League, it also highlights the growing disparity between wealthy clubs and smaller teams with limited resources. The implications of their victory call for a reevaluation of the current financial landscape in football, as many other established teams face difficulties in the competition. Bodo/Glimt not only defied expectations but also served as a warning that a shift in the footballing hierarchy is necessary. Looking ahead, Bodo/Glimt is set to continue their journey in the Champions League. They will face either Manchester City or Sporting Lisbon in the last-16 stage, which poses new challenges but also thrilling opportunities. The club's passionate supporters and the community of Bodo are rallying behind their team, and this Cinderella story may inspire others in football as they demonstrate that with the right attitude and cohesion, extraordinary feats can be accomplished, even against the odds.

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