For many years, Bodo Glimt has been the best team in Norway, and they have taken their fine form to Europe, where they reached the semifinal of the Europa League last term and the round of 16 of the current Champions League.
They are putting Norwegian football on the world map, and several neutrals are now paying attention to them, so it was a shocker when Viking beat them five-nil in a recent meeting between the two clubs.
Just a few months back, Viking had beaten the Bodo side to the Eliteserien title, and most people expect Bodo to get their crown back.
But they have not made a good start to the season, and their performance in that fixture came as a real surprise to most of their fans and even neutrals.
Shock defeat to Viking
The defeat to Viking in the league was a major setback for Bodo as they conceded a heavy loss that few expected, given their status in Norwegian football.
It has increased scrutiny of their performances and raised questions about consistency, especially after strong European campaigns in recent seasons.
Patrik Berg reaction
Patrik Berg admitted disappointment as quoted by VG:
“Of course there are many thoughts swirling around in your head now. Many emotions that you feel. Embarrassment, sadness and everything.
“This hurts a lot, and what hurts the most is that they are attacking us on the most elementary and fundamental point, which is that it seems like Viking has more desire than us. We cannot accept that.”
Bodo will now look to respond quickly after the heavy defeat as they aim to restore confidence and maintain their position at the top level of Norwegian football. The comments from Berg highlight frustration within the squad, particularly regarding effort and intensity, and the team will hope to show a stronger reaction in their next matches to avoid further setbacks.
