Football history was rewritten on a dramatic Champions League night as Bodo/Glimt became the first Norwegian club to reach the Round of 16, demolishing three-time European champions Inter Milan 5-2 on aggregate. This fairy-tale run from the northernmost team in the competition has captivated fans worldwide.
Facing a hostile San Siro crowd, Bodo/Glimt absorbed Inter’s initial onslaught. Jens Petter Hauge, with his Milan pedigree, delivered the opener, followed by pinpoint finishes that showcased the visitors’ clinical edge. Hakon Evjen’s thunderous goal sealed a lead Inter couldn’t overturn.
The Nerazzurri fought back gamely in the closing stages. Goals from Manuel Akanji off a Dimarco assist and Alessandro Bastoni injected tension, but Bodo/Glimt’s defensive resolve held firm under Kjetil Knutsen’s guidance, securing an epoch-making victory.
Across the continent, Newcastle United advanced with flair, beating Qarabag 3-2 in the second leg for a 9-3 overall triumph—one of the goal-fests in UCL history. After a 6-1 first-leg romp, Tonali and Joelinton extended the party early, Botman chimed in later, while Ramsdale’s heroics denied a Qarabag penalty.
Elvin Jafarguliyev’s strike offered brief hope for the Azerbaijan side, but Newcastle were untouchable. Eddie Howe reflected post-match: ‘No game is easy here. Our away performance was outstanding, and the team rose to the occasion.’ Next up for the Toon Army: possibly Chelsea or Barca.