Bodø/Glimt produced one of the greatest giant-killing runs in Champions League history, knocking out three-time champions and Serie A leaders Inter Milan with a 2-1 victory at the San Siro, securing a 5-2 aggregate win. The Norwegian side, who had only two points after their first five matches in the league stage, qualified for the knockout phase in 23rd place and then eliminated Inter to reach the last 16.
Newcastle United also advanced to the last 16 with a dominant performance, beating Qarabag 2-0 on the night and 4-0 on aggregate. Manager Eddie Howe expressed disappointment despite the win, noting that his side 'came off the pedal' after taking a 2-0 lead and wasted energy in an end-to-end second half. He emphasised the need to regain Premier League form.
Bodø/Glimt's achievement drew widespread praise. Fans described it as 'one of the most sensational achievements in European football history' and 'ludicrous', comparing it to CSKA Sofia's upset of Nottingham Forest in 1980. The club now faces either Manchester City or Sporting in the last 16, with the potential to become only the second Norwegian team to reach the quarter-finals, following Rosenborg in 1997.
Howe declined to speculate on Newcastle's next opponent, whether Chelsea or Barcelona, but acknowledged the fan support, including a tifo displayed in his honour before the match. Inter, meanwhile, face a period of introspection after their shock exit.
