Tottenham bags a commanding win over Bodø / Glimt

Tottenham took a massive step towards the Europa League final with a deserved first-leg victory over Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt – but a late goal leaves a little window of doubt.

Tottenham Hotspur delivered one of their finest performances in an otherwise bleak domestic season, brushing aside Bodo/Glimt 3-1 in the Europa League semi-final first leg. The victory puts Ange Postecoglou’s side within touching distance of a first major trophy since 2008.

Lightning Start and Clinical Finishing

It took just 38 seconds for Spurs to make their mark at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Brennan Johnson headed in his 17th goal of the season after Richarlison nodded down Pedro Porro’s cross, giving the home side a dream start.

James Maddison added a sublime second, controlling a long ball from Porro with finesse before threading it into the bottom corner, despite heavy defensive pressure. Tottenham’s control continued into the second half, with Dominic Solanke coolly slotting in a penalty after Cristian Romero was fouled — putting Spurs 3-0 up.

Glimt Struggle Before Late Consolation

Bodo/Glimt, known for their high-octane style and impressive home record, were largely second-best throughout the night. Their only real moment of danger came when Ulrik Saltnes, wearing the captain’s armband in the absence of Patrick Berg, saw his long-range strike deflect off Rodrigo Bentancur and into the top corner.

Despite enjoying 70% possession in the second half, the Norwegian side struggled to trouble Spurs’ defense — Saltnes’ goal being their only shot on target.

Injuries Mar an Otherwise Perfect Night

The only sour note for Tottenham came with injuries to goalscorers Maddison and Solanke, who were forced off in the second half. Their availability for the return leg in the Arctic Circle next week remains uncertain.

Still, Postecoglou’s men take a two-goal cushion to Norway, though history warns against complacency — Glimt have beaten Porto, Olympiakos, Besiktas, and Lazio at home in recent seasons, boasting a 70% home win rate in the Europa League since 2022–23.

Europa Glory Spurs’ Only Lifeline

With Spurs languishing in 16th place in the Premier League, this European campaign may be their only route to redemption — and a potential Champions League berth next season. Postecoglou’s position remains precarious despite European success, with domestic form drawing sharp criticism.

Yet, lifting the Europa League would end a 17-year trophy drought, a feat even heavyweights like Pochettino, Mourinho, and Conte failed to achieve at the club.

Historic Opportunity Beckons

Should Tottenham avoid collapse in Norway, they’ll be one step closer to a fourth Europa League (formerly UEFA Cup) final — having won the tournament in 1972 and 1984, and finished runners-up in 1974.

With Manchester United also winning 3-0 against Athletic Club, the stage could be set for a mouthwatering all-English final in Bilbao.