Bodø/Glimt are in a strong position to continue their Champions League run and potentially reach the quarterfinals on their debut.
A 3–0 victory over Sporting CP in the first leg has put the Norwegian team in control. The Portuguese side faces a challenge in the second leg, despite their strong home record during the league phase.
Bodø/Glimt’s Dominant Performance
Bodø/Glimt’s victory over Sporting was comprehensive. Goals from Sondre Fet, Ole Blomberg and Kasper Høgh contributed to their 3-0 win.
They have shown they can perform well, regardless of the playing surface. They overcame Manchester City, Atlético Madrid and Inter Milan (twice) to reach this stage.
The team performed like seasoned Champions League participants, overwhelming Sporting at their home.
Sporting’s Challenge in the Second Leg
Sporting CP faces a difficult task to overturn the deficit. They were perfect at home during the league phase, but a simple victory might not suffice.
The team had their domestic clash with Tondela postponed to prepare for Bodø’s visit.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Sporting CP are still missing Ricardo Mangas, Giorgi Kochorashvili, Fotis Ioannidis and Geovany Quenda. Quenda is dealing with a broken foot.
Sporting CP predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Silva; Fresneda, Diomande, Inácio, Araújo; Hjulmand, Morita; Catamo, Trincão, Gonçalves; Suárez.
It would be a surprise if Knutsen deviated from the formula that has helped Bodø reach this point. The visitors are dealing with no injuries or suspensions.
Looking Ahead
Should they avoid a staggering Sporting resurgence, Bodø will become just the second Norwegian team to reach the Champions League quarterfinals in the competition’s history. A potential quarterfinal with Premier League leaders Arsenal may await.
The first leg showed a distinct gulf between the two teams, with Knutsen’s men oozing much swagger and class. Given the difficulty of their previous challenges, Sporting’s visit looked like a walk in the park for the Eliteserien underdogs.
Prediction: Sporting CP 1–1 Bodø/Glimt.