
- Fixture: FK Bodø/Glimt vs Tottenham Hotspur
- Date: Thursday, 8 May 2025
- Venue: Aspmyra Stadion, Bodø, Norway
- Kick-off: 9pm local time / 8pm UK time
Match Preview
This Europa League semi-final second leg sees Norwegian champions Bodø/Glimt host Tottenham Hotspur at the atmospheric Aspmyra Stadion, with Spurs holding a 3-1 advantage from the first leg. The stakes are enormous: a place in the 2024/25 Europa League final awaits the victor. Tottenham, despite domestic struggles, have found form in Europe, while Bodø/Glimt have defied expectations to reach this stage, knocking out Lazio on penalties after a dramatic quarter-final.
Bodø/Glimt’s journey to the semi-finals has been remarkable. They narrowly missed automatic qualification for the last 16, finishing ninth in the group phase, but bounced back with impressive knockout wins over Twente and Olympiacos. Their quarter-final against Lazio was particularly dramatic, as they squandered a 2-0 first-leg lead but recovered to win on penalties. In the first leg against Spurs, Ulrik Saltnes’ late goal gave them a glimmer of hope, but they face a tough task overturning a two-goal deficit.
Tottenham, under Ange Postecoglou, have used the Europa League to salvage their season. While their Premier League campaign has been disappointing, the Lilywhites have looked composed in Europe, winning five of their eight group games and dispatching AZ Alkmaar and Eintracht Frankfurt in the knockouts. Their 3-1 win in London gives them a solid cushion, but they’ll be wary of Bodø/Glimt’s home form and resilience-especially after seeing the Norwegians upset Lazio.
Team news gives both sides reasons for concern. Bodø/Glimt are expected to be without midfielder Gaute Vetti. For Tottenham, James Maddison has been ruled out for the season and Dominic Solanke also suffered an injury scare in the first leg, but his withdrawal was said to be precautionary. Son Heung-min is pushing for a return, but Lucas Bergvall and Radu Dragusin remain sidelined. The return of key attackers could be crucial for Spurs as they look to manage the game and avoid any late drama.
Key Players
- Bodø/Glimt: Ulrik Saltnes has been the standout, scoring vital goals against Lazio. His leadership and creativity from midfield will be essential if the hosts are to mount a comeback.
- Tottenham: Brennan Johnson has netted four times in this Europa League campaign and remains a constant threat. Son Heung-min’s potential return could add another dimension to Spurs’ attack.
Prediction
Tottenham’s two-goal advantage and superior squad depth make them favourites to progress, but Bodø/Glimt’s home record and fighting spirit suggest they won’t go down without a fight. Expect the Norwegians to push hard early, but Spurs’ quality on the counter should see them through. A score draw or narrow Tottenham win seems likely, with the English side advancing to the final.
Betting Markets
Market | Odds | Bet Now |
---|---|---|
Tottenham to win | 13/10 | Bet Now |
Draw | 12/5 | Bet Now |
Bodø/Glimt to win | 2/1 | Bet Now |
Both teams to score | 8/13 | Bet Now |
Over 2.5 goals | 4/6 | Bet Now |
Brennan Johnson to score | 2/1 | Bet Now |
Highest scoring half: 1st | 21/10 | Bet Now |
All odds are subject to change. Please gamble responsibly.