FK Bodø/Glimt will look to defy the odds and produce one of the greatest comebacks in their history when they host Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League semi-final second leg on Thursday.
The Norwegian side trail 3-1 after the first leg in London, but their impressive home form and fearless style of play could make this a far more competitive affair than the aggregate scoreline suggests.
Tottenham will be aiming to avoid any surprises at the Aspmyra Stadion, as they seek to confirm their place in the final of Europe’s second-tier competition for the first time since 1974.
FK BODØ/GLIMT VS TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR PREVIEW
FK Bodø/Glimt enter this second leg full of belief, despite the two-goal deficit. The Norwegian club has emerged as a giant-killer in recent European campaigns, and their run this season has been no exception.
They finished 9th overall in the Europa League group stage, collecting 14 points, and have since pushed through the knockouts with a record of eight wins, two draws, and five defeats. Their 28 goals scored show their attacking intent, but the 23 conceded underline defensive concerns.
Recent form has been solid with three wins in their last five matches, and their home ground — the Aspmyra Stadion — remains a tough place to visit. With a high-pressing, all-out-attacking style under their tactically sharp manager, Bodø/Glimt are expected to throw everything forward in front of their passionate home fans.
Tottenham, meanwhile, come into this game with a 3-1 lead and a squad full of experience. Spurs finished fourth in the group phase with 17 points from five wins, two draws and a single defeat. Across the competition, they’ve registered eight wins, three draws and just two losses, scoring 25 goals and conceding 13.
Their recent form has been less convincing, however, with just two wins in their last five games across all competitions. A 1-1 draw away to West Ham last time out highlighted their attacking qualities but also left questions over their ability to manage defensive pressure.
Manager Angelos Postecoglou has built a dynamic, attack-minded Spurs side that plays with intensity and pace. However, their adventurous style sometimes leaves gaps at the back — a factor that could be exploited by a fearless Bodø/Glimt in this high-stakes second leg.
The two teams have only met once before, in the first leg of this semi-final tie. That match ended 3-1 in favour of Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
FK BODØ/GLIMT VS TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR – PREDICTIONS
Tottenham Win
Despite being away from home, Tottenham’s quality and experience make them favourites to win again and secure their place in the final.
Both Teams To Score
Bodø/Glimt have scored in nearly every home match of their campaign and will be forced to attack from the start. Spurs, with their forward line, should have no trouble finding the net either.
Draw
If Bodø/Glimt can control the tempo at home and score first, this could become a tight, dramatic affair. A draw would still be enough for Tottenham to progress.
FK BODØ/GLIMT VS TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR – BETTING TIPS
Tottenham Hotspur Win
With odds of 2.28 at 1win, Tottenham represent good value. Despite their inconsistent form, their first-leg advantage and squad depth suggest they should finish the job in Norway.
Both Teams to Score – Yes
At odds of 1.50 with Paripesa, the BTTS market looks very promising. Both teams have averaged over 2 goals per game throughout the competition and are expected to play open football.
Handicap Betting
For bolder bettors, a +1.5 handicap on Bodø/Glimt could appeal, especially considering their strong home record and Tottenham’s occasional lapses away from home.
HEAD-TO-HEAD AND KEY STATS
- The only previous meeting between the sides ended 3-1 to Tottenham in the first leg.
- Bodø/Glimt have won 3, drawn 1 and lost 1 of their last 5 matches.
- Tottenham have won 2, drawn 1 and lost 2 of their last 5 fixtures.
- Bodø/Glimt have scored 28 goals and conceded 23 in the Europa League.
- Tottenham have scored 25 and conceded 13 in the competition so far.
