Bodo/Glimt vs Tottenham Preview

• Tottenham to win
• Over 2.5 goals

The UEFA Europa League semi-final second leg between Bodø/Glimt and Tottenham Hotspur is set for a dramatic encounter under the Arctic Circle lights, with the Norwegian side looking to defy the odds and overturn a two-goal deficit after a 3-1 defeat in London.

While many may have written off Bodø/Glimt’s chances of progression, a late strike from Ulrik Saltnes in the first leg gave the Norwegians a lifeline and preserved hope of what would be an historic comeback on home soil.

The comeback kings of Bodø?

It may seem like a monumental challenge for Bodø/Glimt to reach their first-ever European final, but their route to this stage has already been paved with drama, resilience, and surprise results. In both previous knockout rounds, the Eliteserien outfit lost away from home only to produce stunning victories in the return legs at Aspmyra Stadion – including a 2-0 win over Lazio in the quarter-finals. That record, combined with their imperious home form in 2024 – six straight wins across all competitions, all by multiple-goal margins – provides more than a glimmer of belief that a turnaround is possible.

Thursday night presents the biggest night in Bodø/Glimt’s history. Not only are they aiming to become the first Norwegian club to reach the final of a major men’s UEFA competition, but they also have the opportunity to finally taste victory against English opposition. Bodø/Glimt have lost all four of their previous European meetings with English clubs, including two defeats this season – 3-2 to Manchester United in the league phase and 3-1 to Spurs in the first leg. But if any venue can give them the edge, it’s their fortress in the Arctic north.

Tottenham in control – but must remain cautious

Tottenham head into the return leg with a 3-1 advantage and should feel confident of reaching a first European final since their Champions League run in 2018/19. However, manager Ange Postecoglou knows all too well how dangerous a trip to Bodø can be. During his spell in charge of Celtic, the Australian oversaw a 2-0 defeat at Aspmyra in February 2022, crashing out of the Conference League 5-1 on aggregate. That experience will surely inform his approach here, and he will be warning his players not to underestimate the opposition or the conditions.

Spurs’ injury situation throws some questions into the mix. James Maddison, who netted in the first leg, is likely to miss out after Postecoglou confirmed his outlook is “not looking promising”. On the bright side, key forwards Dominic Solanke and Son Heung-min could feature after being rested or recently returning to training, but both remain fitness doubts. The north London side have been fairly solid on the road in Europe this term, avoiding any defeats by more than one goal margin, but they’ve yet to experience a test quite like this.

Tactical Battle & What to Expect

Bodø/Glimt will likely come out with aggressive intent, as they did against Lazio, knowing they need at least a two-goal win to force extra time. They’ve often relied on their high-pressing game and fast transitions in Europe, and their familiarity with the cold, tight pitch at Aspmyra could prove unsettling for Spurs.

Tottenham, meanwhile, must manage the occasion smartly. They can afford to absorb pressure and pick their moments to strike, especially on the counter. With pacey wingers like Brennan Johnson in their ranks – who scored the fastest-ever goal in a Europa League semi-final (39 seconds) – the visitors possess the tools to punish Bodø if they overcommit.

Players to watch

Ulrik Saltnes (Bodø/Glimt)

The midfielder continues to play the role of hero in Europe for his club. Not only did he score the crucial away goal in the first leg, but he also netted twice at home in the quarter-finals against Lazio.

His leadership and eye for goal from deep make him Bodø’s most dangerous threat.

Brennan Johnson (Tottenham)

Fresh from setting a record for the quickest goal in a Europa League semi-final, Johnson has now scored three of his four competition goals before half-time.

His speed and directness could be critical on the break as Spurs look to put the tie to bed.

Hot stat

Tottenham have progressed from 18 of their last 21 UEFA knockout ties after winning the first leg – a reassuring stat for Spurs fans hoping to see their team in the final.

For more info on this game, you may also visit:
Bodø/Glimt vs Tottenham | UEFA Europa League 2024/25