Inter vs. Bodø/Glimt: A High-Stakes Champions League Showdown
Serie A leaders Inter Milan face a daunting task as they welcome Bodø/Glimt to the iconic San Siro for the second leg of their Champions League playoff tie on Tuesday night. Trailing 3-1 from the first leg, Inter must overcome a two-goal deficit to secure their place in the coveted round of 16.
The First Leg Shocker
Few predicted the outcome of the first leg, where Bodø/Glimt stunned Inter with a quick-fire double around the hour mark. Kjetil Knutsen’s side, the surprise package of the competition, demonstrated remarkable composure and tactical prowess. However, the Norwegian outfit knows that a resilient performance is crucial at the San Siro, a venue that has witnessed countless European nights of drama.
Inter’s Response and Team News
Inter, under the guidance of Cristian Chivu, will be determined to avenge their first-leg defeat. While Lautaro Martínez remains sidelined with a calf injury, Marcus Thuram is expected to partner with Pio Esposito in attack. Federico Dimarco is a guaranteed starter, adding defensive solidity and attacking threat. Piotr Zieliński will fill the void left by Hakan Çalhanoğlu in midfield, while Nicolo Barella returns to the engine room after a weekend rest.
Inter Predicted Lineup (3-5-2): Sommer; Akanji, Acerbi, Bastoni; Darmian, Barella, Zieliński, Sučić, Dimarco; Thuram, Esposito.
Bodø/Glimt’s Momentum
Bodø/Glimt arrives in Milan brimming with confidence, having enjoyed a remarkable run of form, including impressive victories against Borussia Dortmund, Atlético Madrid, and Manchester City. Captain Patrick Berg is available after avoiding suspension, bolstering their midfield. Jens Petter Hauge and Kasper Høgh have been instrumental in their Champions League success, with Høgh finding the net in each of their wins against top European opposition.
Bodø/Glimt Predicted Lineup (4-3-3): Haikin; Sjøvold, Gundersen, Bjørtuft, Bjørkan; Evjen, Berg, Fet; Blomberg, Høgh, Hauge.
A Historic Challenge for Inter
Inter has never before had to overturn a two-goal deficit in the Champions League. The pressure is immense, but the Nerazzurri, currently dominating Serie A, are expected to throw everything they have at Bodø/Glimt. A failure to progress would be considered a major setback for the Italian giants.
Prediction
While Inter’s home advantage and attacking firepower are undeniable, Bodø/Glimt’s recent away form and unwavering spirit suggest they are capable of holding off Inter’s resurgence. Expect a tightly contested match with Inter ultimately securing a narrow victory, but it may not be enough.
Prediction: Inter Milan 2–1 Bodø/Glimt
This preview is brought to you by James Cormack, a Sports Illustrated Soccer freelance writer specializing in tactical and player analysis.
