As the second leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-final approaches, the spotlight shifts to the Arctic Circle where Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt welcome English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur to the Aspmyra Stadion. With the aggregate scoreline standing at 3-1 in Tottenham’s favor, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown filled with tactical battles, high-stakes drama, and the possibility of a historic comeback.
All eyes on the second leg ⏳ pic.twitter.com/u2MBtxbaRI
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 5, 2025
Bodo/Glimt vs Tottenham Match Details and Broadcast Information
- Fixture: Bodo/Glimt vs Tottenham Hotspur
- Competition: UEFA Europa League – Semi-Final (2nd Leg)
- Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
- Time: 8:00 PM (UK) | 3:00 PM (US Eastern) | 12:00 PM (US Pacific)
- Venue: Aspmyra Stadion, Bodo, Norway
Bodo/Glimt: Confidence at the Edge of Europe
A Fortress in the North
The Norwegian side has developed a reputation for being nearly invincible at home, especially in European competitions. With sub-zero temperatures, an artificial pitch, and an intensely passionate home crowd, the Aspmyra Stadion provides one of the most intimidating atmospheres on the continent. Bodo/Glimt have lost just one of their last 18 European home matches, a record that includes stunning wins over clubs like Celtic, Roma, and AZ Alkmaar in recent years.
Heroics Against Lazio Fuel Belief
Their path to the semi-finals has already defied expectations. In the quarter-finals, Bodo/Glimt secured a 2-0 first-leg win over Lazio in Bodo and survived a second-leg defeat in Rome by edging through on penalties. The ability to eliminate an established Serie A side like Lazio speaks volumes about the team’s resilience, tactical organization, and maturity under pressure.
Knutsen’s Tactical Brilliance
Manager Kjetil Knutsen has masterminded one of the most impressive managerial projects in Scandinavia. His team plays with a high pressing line, quick vertical passing, and fluid positional rotations in midfield. What makes Bodo/Glimt particularly dangerous is their adaptability—they can dominate possession or play a ruthless counter-attacking game depending on the opponent.
Returning Firepower
Knutsen’s side will receive a timely boost with the return of key players. Midfield general Patrick Berg, the versatile Hakon Evjen, and clinical forward Andreas Helmersen are all set to return after serving suspensions. These inclusions will significantly strengthen the starting lineup, especially against a Tottenham team missing key personnel.
Tottenham Hotspur: A Nervous Journey North
An Unconvincing Lead
Tottenham arrive in Norway with a 3-1 cushion, thanks to first-leg goals from Brennan Johnson, James Maddison, and Dominic Solanke. However, the scoreline does not fully reflect the flow of that match. Bodo/Glimt were aggressive in the latter stages and grabbed a crucial away goal through Uli Saltnes, reducing the deficit and applying psychological pressure heading into the second leg.
Injury Concerns Mount
One of the most significant blows to Tottenham’s ambitions is the loss of James Maddison, who is ruled out for the remainder of the season with an injury. Maddison has been the creative heartbeat of the squad, contributing both goals and assists throughout the European campaign. Additionally, Dragusin and Bergvall are sidelined, while both Solanke and Son Heung-min are fitness doubts. These absences create potential vulnerabilities that Bodo/Glimt will be eager to exploit.
Postecoglou’s Second Season Promise
Manager Ange Postecoglou made headlines at the beginning of his tenure by confidently claiming he always wins silverware in his second season. While Spurs have displayed flashes of brilliance, inconsistency and injuries have plagued their season. This second-leg tie in the frigid North may prove to be a defining moment for the Australian tactician.
Tactical Breakdown: Key Battles and Strategies
Midfield Engine Room
The central midfield will be a battleground of high intensity. With Berg and Evjen orchestrating Bodo/Glimt’s transitions, Tottenham must rely on Bissouma and Bentancur to absorb pressure, break up play, and progress the ball efficiently. Without Maddison’s creativity, the burden of chance creation may fall to Kulusevski, who must float between the lines to disrupt the compact Norwegian midfield.
Pressing vs Possession
Bodo/Glimt are expected to come out pressing high and aggressively. This presents a challenge for Spurs, who have often struggled when forced to build from deep under pressure. Should Tottenham fail to bypass the first wave of pressing, they risk being pinned in their half—a scenario that could quickly lead to an early goal for the home side.
Aerial Duels and Set Pieces
The swirling Arctic winds and tight pitch dimensions make set pieces particularly dangerous. Bodo/Glimt will likely target Tottenham’s high line and aerial inconsistencies with deep free-kicks and outswinging corners. Defenders like Romero and Van de Ven must maintain discipline and communication to prevent chaos in the box.
Wide Areas and Overlaps
Both teams utilize the 4-3-3 shape, but Bodo/Glimt’s full-backs—particularly Bjorkan—are highly adventurous and will look to create overloads on the flanks. Spurs’ full-backs Porro and Udogie must balance attacking support with defensive positioning, as leaving space behind could lead to dangerous crosses or cutbacks.
Form Guide: Recent Results
Bodo/Glimt (Last 5 Matches in All Competitions):
- W vs Sandefjord (2-1)
- L vs Tottenham (1-3)
- D vs Molde (0-0)
- W vs Lazio (2-0)
- L vs Lazio (0-2, won on penalties)
Tottenham Hotspur (Last 5 Matches in All Competitions):
- W vs Bodo/Glimt (3-1)
- L vs Arsenal (0-2)
- W vs Brighton (2-0)
- D vs Wolves (1-1)
- W vs Crystal Palace (3-1)
Bodo/Glimt vs Tottenham Key Statistics
- Bodo/Glimt have scored 2+ goals in 12 of their last 14 home games in European competition.
- Tottenham have kept just one clean sheet in their last six away matches in the Europa League.
- Maddison’s absence leaves Tottenham without a player who contributed to 7 goals in this European run.
- Bodo/Glimt average 60% possession at home in European fixtures this season.
Takk for FANTASTISK støtte igjen💛 pic.twitter.com/l7AYThyFbX
— FK Bodø/Glimt | Seriemester 2024 🏆 (@Glimt) May 1, 2025
Bodo/Glimt vs Tottenham Probable Line-Ups
Bodo/Glimt Starting XI (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
- Nikita Khaikin – A reliable presence between the sticks, Khaikin’s quick reflexes and strong aerial command are essential for withstanding Tottenham’s attacking phases, especially from set pieces.
Defenders
- Fredrik Sjovold (RB) – Energetic and aggressive, expect him to push high up the pitch to support wide overloads.
- Ulrik Saltnes (CB) – Normally a midfielder, he’s been used in defense for tactical flexibility. His composure and distribution from the back are key.
- Marius Lode (CB) – Aerially dominant and experienced, crucial for handling Solanke or Johnson in the box.
- Fredrik Bjorkan (LB) – A marauding full-back with sharp crossing ability. He often becomes a secondary playmaker down the left.
Midfielders
- Patrick Berg (CDM) – The heartbeat of the team. Berg dictates tempo, breaks up play, and initiates quick counters.
- Hakon Evjen (CM) – Box-to-box engine with great technical skill. Known for late runs into the area.
- Sondre Fet (CM) – Calm in possession and physically resilient, balances Evjen’s forward movements.
Forwards
- Runar Espejord (RW) – A physical forward who can cut inside and shoot, also helps press high from the front.
- Nino Zugelj (ST) – A dynamic front man who presses relentlessly and finishes clinically inside the area.
- Jens Petter Hauge (LW) – Their most technically gifted attacker, Hauge can create chances out of nothing and beat defenders 1v1.
Key Substitutes: Andreas Helmersen (FW), Elias Hagen (MF), Alfons Sampsted (DF)
Tottenham Hotspur Starting XI (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
- Guglielmo Vicario – Spurs’ number one is excellent with his feet, but he’ll need to be alert to quick transitions and Bodo’s pressing traps.
Defenders
- Pedro Porro (RB) – An attacking full-back who offers width and crossing from the right. Must balance his attacking instincts.
- Cristian Romero (CB) – Aggressive and combative. Must avoid reckless fouls while maintaining leadership at the back.
- Micky van de Ven (CB) – One of the fastest defenders in Europe. His pace will be essential against Bodo’s wide forwards.
- Destiny Udogie (LB) – Offers overlapping runs on the left and will be crucial to Spurs’ counter-attacks.
Midfielders
- Yves Bissouma (CDM) – The anchor. Needs to shield the back line and distribute cleanly under pressure.
- Rodrigo Bentancur (CM) – Brings calm, vision, and vertical passing. Spurs will rely on him to connect defense and attack.
- Dejan Kulusevski (CM/AM) – Usually a winger, but may shift centrally to compensate for Maddison’s absence. His creativity is key.
Forwards
- Brennan Johnson (RW) – A pacy forward who thrives on direct play. Likely to exploit any space behind Bjorkan.
- Dominic Solanke (ST) – Doubtful due to a knock but expected to start. Offers hold-up play and aerial threat.
- Mathys Tel (LW) – The young winger is full of flair and unpredictability. Can stretch the defense and create one-on-one chances.
Key Substitutes: Son Heung-min (Fitness pending), Richarlison, Oliver Skipp, Bryan Gil
Bodo/Glimt vs Tottenham Prediction
History and form suggest that Tottenham should progress. Yet, football at this level rarely follows logic alone. With momentum from their late goal in London, a ferocious home crowd, and a strengthened squad, Bodo/Glimt will feel this is their moment. Spurs’ fragility—both physical and mental—adds a layer of unpredictability.
Prediction: Bodo/Glimt 2-0 Tottenham (Aggregate: 3-3, Bodo/Glimt win on penalties)
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Vi teller ned ⏳ pic.twitter.com/uzSV0NNAB3
— FK Bodø/Glimt | Seriemester 2024 🏆 (@Glimt) May 6, 2025
Conclusion
The UEFA Europa League has consistently provided unforgettable nights, and this tie promises another classic. Bodo/Glimt will throw everything at Tottenham in a bid to create history. For Spurs, survival in hostile territory and intelligent game management are paramount. With injury concerns mounting and Arctic conditions in play, nothing is guaranteed. We anticipate a nervy, intense affair that may ultimately favor the bold.
