They have an unshakeable spirit, unplugged bravado and grit, similar to the Vikings. No wonder Norway has made it to the FIFA World Cup 2026, without losing a single game in the qualifiers and Bodø/Glimt, the Norwegian club, has been a major contributor.
A frontline of terrific players in Kasper Høgh and Jens Peter Hauge, a midfield beset with enterprise through SB Fet and Patrick Berg and a tough as nail defence, Bodø/Glimt are a seriously tough team to negotiate and particularly in home conditions, the Norwegians are a handful.
The Italian giants Inter Milan realised the fact mentioned above when they travelled to Norway for the 1st leg of the UEFA Round of 16 playoffs. The match was held at the Aspmyra Stadion in the town of Bodø, with a capacity of just over 8000 spectators.
It was freezing last night, and though Inter had a few chances early on, Bodø/Glimt, with their exquisite play and brilliant finishing, got ahead through Fet. Inter equalised through the very young Esposito soon after, but the match slipped completely off Inter, the UEFA Champions League finalists last year, in the second half.
Jens Peter Hauge produced an incredible strike to defeat Sommer in the Inter goal. It was all power and precision, and Inter had no answer. The Norwegians added a third again with brilliant passing, cutting through the Inter defence with superb timing and skill. Kasper Høgh scored to make it 3-1.
Inter tried and hit the goal post twice, but it was not to be for the Nerazzurris. The Norwegians held on and ensured a famous victory.
The football was amazing and of the highest quality from Bodø/Glimt. Manchester City too had faced a similar fate when the blues had visited Aspmyra Stadion a few weeks ago.
With 3-1 up in the 1st leg, Bodø/Glimt have a great advantage going into the second leg. Inter conceded a goal too many and will have to play out of their skins in the return leg at the iconic San Siro a week later. The match will also test Bodø/Glimt’s resolve and self belief.
I am slowly but surely becoming a fan of Bodø/Glimt and Norwegian Football.
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