It was going to be a tough test for the Vikings from Norway as Bodø/Glimt took the field against Inter Milan at the Italians’ fortress. But the warriors, in a rich streak of form, buried the hosts instead.
Hauge and Evjen scored for Bodø, while Inter could score just a lone goal on their home ground as the Italian giants lost 1-2 and 2-5 on aggregate to an extremely determined Norwegian unit.
Bodø/Glimt with victories in both legs, thus secured a place in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League, a mighty achievement for the Nordic Flag Bearers.
It was indeed an extraordinary night in Milan as Inter without their star striker Lautaro Martinez, tried everything they could, but were unable to break the Nordic resolve. Nikita Haikin, Bodø’s goalkeeper was sublime and stood like an impermeable wall. Inter just could not breach him.
Akanji made a big error which resulted in the first goal but the one by Evjen was pure class. A brilliant counter attack and Evjen had scored in the blink of an eye with an incredible finish.
Bodø’s btavado and steely grit survived a barrage of runs from Inter and eventually the Italian power house who are running away with the Serie A, were shown the door thus ending their European ambitions for this season, by the Norwegians.
I feel sorry for Inter. They have been a great club but I am equally excited for Bodø/Glimt. They are playing some staggering football and fully deserve their place in the last 16.