Bodø/Glimt are now just two matches away from reaching the Champions League’s new league phase, with Austrian side Sturm Graz standing in their way.
The Austrians featured at this stage of the competition last season, where they enjoyed a respectable run and will be determined to replicate that success. Bodø, meanwhile, competed in the Europa League and impressed by reaching the semi-final before falling to Tottenham.
High Stakes for Bodø/Glimt
Millions of euros in prize money are on the line, and Bodø are eager to secure their place in Europe’s most prestigious competition. Their impressive European journey last season forced them to postpone several league fixtures, but the team has regained its rhythm domestically and remains in the hunt for another league title.
Heading into this tie, Bodø boast an unbeaten run of nine matches, winning seven of them. This form has given them confidence that they can compete strongly against Graz.
Sturm Graz Provide a Stern Test
Graz came into the contest having collected two wins from their opening three league matches. They also faced Strasbourg in a friendly two weeks ago, losing that encounter but still showing flashes of their attacking strength.
This will be the first-ever meeting between Bodø and an Austrian club in European competition. Graz, however, do have history against Norwegian opposition, having lost on aggregate to Haugesund in the Europa League back in 2019.
Bodø’s home form on European nights has long been a key advantage, with visiting teams often struggling to cope with their intensity and atmosphere. They will look to use that strength again as they aim to take a decisive step towards the Champions League league phase.
