Tottenham Hotspur vs Bodo/Glimt

Tottenham Hotspur’s 2024/25 campaign has reached a defining point, with the club’s European aspirations now representing the most realistic pathway to salvaging a season that has largely failed to deliver on domestic expectations. Under the stewardship of Ange Postecoglou, Spurs had hoped to challenge across multiple fronts, yet their domestic form has faltered significantly, leaving European competition as the final battleground in their quest for both redemption and tangible success. As the Premier League title drifted out of reach and domestic cup campaigns ended prematurely, the pressure has intensified on the Australian manager to deliver silverware on the continental stage.

The importance of Tottenham’s European adventure cannot be overstated. Not only does it present an opportunity to end a long-standing trophy drought that stretches back to 2008 — when they last lifted silverware with a League Cup triumph — but it also serves as a potential lifeline to secure a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League. Finishing outside the top four in the Premier League means Spurs are relying on European success to ensure they maintain their presence among Europe’s elite next season. For a club of Tottenham's stature, missing out on Champions League football would be viewed as a significant setback, both financially and in terms of prestige, especially after the promises made when Postecoglou took over the reins.

Despite the inconsistencies witnessed in domestic fixtures, Spurs have turned in a series of solid performances in Europe to keep their hopes alive. Their quarter-final clash against Eintracht Frankfurt was far from straightforward, but Tottenham showcased the necessary grit and composure to navigate the tie successfully. The German side posed a credible threat, and the North London outfit had to dig deep across both legs. However, Tottenham managed to edge past their opponents with a combination of tactical discipline and individual brilliance, underlining their growing maturity in European contests.

Now, attention turns to the semi-finals, where Tottenham face a compelling challenge in the form of Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt. The tie represents a historic moment in European football, as Bodo/Glimt become the first team from Norway to ever reach the semi-final stage of a major European competition. Their remarkable journey to this point has already defied expectations, and they arrive as dangerous opponents with a reputation for upsetting more established clubs. Tottenham, while favourites on paper, cannot afford to underestimate a side that has consistently proven its quality and resilience.

Bodo/Glimt’s rise on the European scene has been nothing short of remarkable. Long considered minnows in continental competition, the Eliteserien outfit has undergone a transformation in recent seasons, establishing itself as a well-organized and tactically astute team capable of taking on and defeating top-tier opposition. Their route to the semi-finals has seen them overcome significant hurdles, with the most notable being their elimination of Italian side Lazio in the quarter-finals. The tie was an intense affair, ultimately settled through a dramatic penalty shootout, during which Bodo/Glimt held their nerve to advance. That result not only showcased their mental fortitude but also confirmed their status as giant-killers in this year’s competition.

The Norwegian club’s recent history has been defined by steady progress, intelligent recruitment, and a commitment to a fluid and attacking style of football that belies their relative inexperience at this level. Their rise has mirrored that of other smaller European clubs who, through careful planning and tactical innovation, have found ways to compete with better-resourced opponents. In Tottenham, Bodo/Glimt will face perhaps their sternest test yet, but having already knocked out the likes of Lazio, they approach the tie with belief and nothing to lose.

From a Tottenham perspective, the matchup offers both an opportunity and a potential pitfall. On one hand, Spurs boast a deeper squad, more experience in European knockout football, and the kind of individual talent capable of unlocking any defence. On the other, the pressure to win — especially against perceived underdogs — can be a heavy burden, and Bodo/Glimt’s fearless approach has already claimed victims in this tournament. Postecoglou and his staff will be fully aware that anything less than complete focus and tactical clarity could see them join that list.

In terms of team news ahead of the first leg, Tottenham are in a relatively strong position compared to earlier in the campaign, where injuries heavily disrupted squad cohesion and consistency. The squad has slowly returned to near full strength, allowing Postecoglou to implement his tactical vision with greater flexibility. However, not all key figures are available, and some absences will be keenly felt.

One major absentee is Son Heung-min, the club captain and one of their most influential attacking players. The South Korean international continues to struggle with a foot injury that has kept him sidelined during a critical phase of the season. His absence robs Spurs of both his creativity and leadership on the pitch. Son’s ability to score in high-pressure situations and his penchant for delivering in European games will be sorely missed, and Tottenham will need other forwards to step up in his place.

Another long-term absentee is Romanian defender Radu Dragusin. Having suffered an ACL injury earlier in the season, Dragusin remains unavailable for selection and is unlikely to feature again until the next campaign. His loss has impacted Tottenham’s defensive depth, though recent performances suggest that Postecoglou has found temporary solutions to plug the gap at the back.

Additionally, Spurs will be without one of their January arrivals, Antonin Kinsky. The young midfielder was signed with an eye on the future but was not registered for the European squad, rendering him ineligible to participate in this stage of the competition. While Kinsky was not expected to play a starring role this season, his exclusion further limits Tottenham’s midfield options should rotation or injuries become a factor across the two legs.

Despite these setbacks, the general health of the squad is significantly improved from earlier in the season, giving Postecoglou a reasonably wide array of options when it comes to selecting his matchday XI. The tactical setup is expected to remain true to the attacking principles that have defined his management style — high pressing, quick transitions, and a proactive approach to possession. Tottenham will likely aim to assert control early, using their home leg to establish a strong advantage before heading to Norway for the return fixture.

Players like James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Richarlison will be vital in Son’s absence. Maddison has shown creative flair throughout the season and is expected to shoulder more responsibility in linking midfield to attack. Kulusevski, known for his direct running and intelligent movement, could be the key to stretching Bodo/Glimt’s defensive lines, while Richarlison’s physicality and finishing ability provide a focal point up front. In midfield, the duo of Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur could be crucial in maintaining control and tempo, especially against a Bodo/Glimt side that thrives in chaotic, high-intensity moments.

Defensively, Spurs must maintain discipline. Bodo/Glimt are likely to play without fear, and their fast, counter-attacking style can expose defensive vulnerabilities. Players like Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven will need to remain alert, while full-backs Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie are expected to play important roles in both defence and attack.

The psychological aspect of the tie should not be overlooked either. Tottenham, having gone without a trophy for well over a decade, carry the emotional weight of expectation. Each European fixture becomes not only a tactical battle but also a test of nerve. Fans and pundits alike are closely watching whether Postecoglou can instil the kind of winning mentality needed to break this long-standing drought.

Meanwhile, for Bodo/Glimt, this is a moment of history. Their run has already captured imaginations across Europe, and a victory over Tottenham would only enhance their growing legacy. With little to lose and everything to gain, they will likely play with freedom and courage, characteristics that often make underdogs so dangerous in knockout football.

As the semi-finals approach, the stakes are clear for both clubs. For Tottenham Hotspur, this is about proving they are more than nearly men, about seizing an opportunity to rewrite the narrative that has followed them for years. For Bodo/Glimt, it is a chance to defy logic once more, to continue their fairytale, and to perhaps do the unthinkable by reaching a European final. Regardless of outcome, the stage is set for a captivating encounter — one that promises drama, emotion, and football of the highest calibre.