MILAN – In a stunning upset that reverberated throughout European football, Bodø/Glimt eliminated Inter Milan from the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, securing a 2-1 victory at the San Siro and a 5-2 aggregate win. The result marks a monumental achievement for the Norwegian club, becoming the first Norwegian team to ever win a Champions League knockout tie.
Alessandro Bastoni scored a late goal for Inter in the 76th minute, but it proved to be a mere consolation as Bodø/Glimt had already established a commanding lead through goals from Jens Petter Hauge (58’) and Hakon Evjen (72’). The Norwegian side’s triumph sends them into the round of 16, where they will face either Manchester City or Sporting CP.
The defeat is a “catastrophe” for Inter Milan, according to former German international Jürgen Klinsmann, and a hugely embarrassing exit for the Serie A leaders. Inter had reached the final last year, losing to Manchester City, making this playoff exit all the more shocking.
Bodø/Glimt’s remarkable run to the knockout stages has been nothing short of sensational. Prior to the start of January, they hadn’t secured a single win in the Champions League. However, they finished the league phase with victories against Manchester City and Atlético Madrid, setting the stage for this historic playoff victory. The team’s coach, Kjetil Knutsen, expressed his disbelief after the match, stating, “Can you believe it? A team from a small town up north. It’s unbelievable.”
The match at the San Siro saw Bodø/Glimt effectively neutralize Inter’s attacking threats while capitalizing on their opportunities. Hauge’s goal broke the deadlock in the second half, injecting confidence into the Norwegian side. Evjen then doubled their advantage, leaving Inter with a mountain to climb. Bastoni’s goal offered a glimmer of hope for the home side, but Bodø/Glimt remained resolute in defense, holding on for a historic victory.
Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella acknowledged his team’s disappointment, stating, “We’re disappointed. We want to go as far as possible in every competition. We tried, but they were better than us.” The loss raises questions about Inter’s form and their ability to compete at the highest level in Europe this season.
This victory isn’t just a triumph for Bodø/Glimt; it’s a significant moment for Norwegian football. It demonstrates the growing competitiveness of teams from outside the traditional European powerhouses and provides inspiration for other clubs in smaller leagues. The club’s success story is particularly remarkable given its relatively modest resources compared to the giants of European football.
The aggregate score of 5-2 underscores the completeness of Bodø/Glimt’s victory. Having won the first leg 3-1, they carried a two-goal advantage into the return fixture at the San Siro, a venue renowned for its intimidating atmosphere. However, the Norwegian side showed no signs of being overawed by the occasion, delivering a composed and clinical performance.
Looking ahead, Bodø/Glimt will now prepare for their round of 16 clash against either Manchester City or Sporting CP. The draw presents a formidable challenge, but the Norwegian side will undoubtedly approach the tie with the same fearless spirit that has characterized their Champions League campaign thus far. The first leg of that tie will be a significant test of their capabilities against a team with a proven track record in the competition.
For Inter Milan, the focus will now shift to domestic competition. They will need to regroup quickly and address the issues that contributed to their Champions League exit. The Serie A title race remains competitive, and Inter will be determined to bounce back from this setback and mount a strong challenge for the championship.
The upset serves as a potent reminder of the unpredictable nature of football and the potential for underdog stories to unfold on the biggest stage. Bodø/Glimt’s journey in the Champions League is a testament to the power of teamwork, tactical discipline, and unwavering belief.
What’s Next: Bodø/Glimt awaits the outcome of the Manchester City vs. Sporting CP tie to learn their round of 16 opponent. Inter Milan returns to Serie A action on March 2, 2026, against Atalanta at the San Siro.
What are your thoughts on Bodø/Glimt’s incredible run? Share your opinions in the comments below!
