Loading...

mosque
partly-cloudy
°C,

Inter Milan stunned by Bodø/Glimt in Champions League playoff

February 19, 2026 / 9:33 PM
 Inter Milan stunned by Bodø/Glimt in Champions League playoff
download-img
Sharjah 24 – AFP: Inter Milan suffered a 3-1 defeat away to FK Bodø/Glimt in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff tie, putting last season’s runners-up under early pressure.

Early goals set the tone

The Norwegian hosts opened the scoring in the 20th minute through Sondre Brønstad Vit. Inter responded quickly, with Pio Esposito leveling the score in the 30th minute.

However, Bodø/Glimt regained control in the second half, striking twice in just four minutes. Jens Petter Hauge found the net in the 61st minute, followed by Dane Kasper Hauge in the 64th, sealing an impressive home victory.

First setback after strong run

The loss marks the first defeat for coach Cristian Chivu’s side after six consecutive wins in all competitions. That run included a dramatic 3-2 victory over Juventus F.C. in the Derby d’Italia just four days earlier.

Decisive second leg at San Siro

Inter, who currently lead Serie A, now face a challenging task in the return leg at San Siro next Tuesday as they look to overturn the deficit and keep their European campaign alive.

Road to the playoffs

Inter reached the playoff stage after finishing tenth in the league phase, sealing qualification with a 2-0 win over Borussia Dortmund in their final group match. Their campaign also included defeats to Atlético Madrid, Liverpool F.C., and Arsenal F.C..

Meanwhile, Bodø/Glimt finished 23rd in the unified group stage. Their results included a 2-2 draw with Borussia Dortmund, a 3-1 victory over Manchester City F.C., and a 2-1 defeat to Atlético Madrid, highlighting their ability to challenge Europe’s elite.

 

February 19, 2026 / 9:33 PM

More on this Topic

Rotate For an optimal experience, please
rotate your device to portrait mode.