BODØ, Norway – Bodø/Glimt’s remarkable run in the 2026 Champions League continued Wednesday, as the Norwegian side defeated Sporting CP 3-0 in the first leg of their round of 16 tie. The victory marks a fifth consecutive win for Bodø/Glimt in the competition, a feat that has cemented their status as a genuine surprise package in European football. This result extends a fairytale season for the club from Norway’s top flight, and puts them in a strong position heading into the second leg in Lisbon.
The match, played at the Aspmyra Stadium, saw Bodø/Glimt dominate Sporting CP, showcasing the high-energy, high-pressing style that has become their trademark. Sondre Fet opened the scoring with a penalty, followed by a goal from Ole Didrik Blomberg before halftime. Kasper Hogh added a third goal in the 71st minute, effectively sealing the victory for the Norwegian champions.
This win comes after a stunning group stage performance where Bodø/Glimt overcame significant challenges to reach the knockout rounds. Their journey included victories against Manchester City, Atletico Madrid, and Inter Milan – results that few predicted at the start of the season. The team’s ability to consistently outperform expectations has captivated fans and analysts alike.
A Stunning Ascent: Bodø/Glimt’s Champions League Results in 2026
- Bodø/Glimt 3-1 Manchester City
- Atletico Madrid 1-2 Bodø/Glimt
- Bodø/Glimt 3-1 Inter Milan
- Inter Milan 1-2 Bodø/Glimt
- Bodø/Glimt 3-0 Sporting CP
The turnaround for Bodø/Glimt has been particularly impressive considering their form in the latter half of 2025. After finishing with three draws and three losses in their initial six Champions League matches, Kjetil Knutsen’s side has found a new level of consistency and confidence in the new year. The team’s ability to adapt and improve has been a key factor in their success.
Manager Knutsen named the same starting XI for a fifth consecutive Champions League game, a rare occurrence in the competition. Only Auxerre, 23 years ago, had previously achieved this feat, highlighting the coach’s faith in his squad and the team’s stability. This consistency has clearly paid dividends, fostering a strong team spirit and tactical understanding.
Key Moments from the Match
The first half saw Bodø/Glimt assert their dominance, with Fet converting a penalty after a foul in the box. Blomberg then doubled the lead with a well-placed finish, capitalizing on a defensive error from Sporting CP. The Portuguese side struggled to cope with Bodø/Glimt’s relentless pressing and struggled to create clear-cut chances.
In the second half, Hogh’s goal further solidified Bodø/Glimt’s advantage. The goal came from a well-worked move, showcasing the team’s attacking prowess and clinical finishing. Sporting CP attempted to respond, but Bodø/Glimt’s defense remained resolute, limiting the visitors to few opportunities.
Sporting’s leading scorer, Luis Suarez, had an early effort deflected over the bar, but the Portuguese side largely failed to threaten the Bodø/Glimt goal. The Norwegian team’s energy and tactical discipline proved too much for Sporting CP to handle, leaving them with a significant uphill battle in the second leg.
The victory places Bodø/Glimt in a favorable position as they prepare for the return leg in Lisbon next Tuesday. The winner of the tie will face either Arsenal or Bayer Leverkusen in the quarter-finals. For a club representing a city of just 50,000 people, reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League would be an extraordinary achievement.
Bodø/Glimt’s success story is a testament to their commitment to attacking football, tactical flexibility, and unwavering team spirit. They have quickly become one of the most exciting and unpredictable teams in European football, and their journey in the Champions League is one that fans around the world will be watching with keen interest.
What’s Next for Bodø/Glimt?
Bodø/Glimt will travel to Lisbon next Tuesday for the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie against Sporting CP. The Norwegian side will be looking to protect their 3-0 lead and secure their place in the quarter-finals. The match promises to be a challenging encounter, but Bodø/Glimt have already proven that they are capable of overcoming the odds.
Following the Champions League tie, Bodø/Glimt will return to domestic action, where they will continue their pursuit of the Eliteserien title. The team will be hoping to carry their momentum from the Champions League into their league campaign and continue their impressive run of form.
What are your thoughts on Bodø/Glimt’s incredible Champions League journey? Share your predictions for the second leg against Sporting CP in the comments below!
