Bodo/Glimt Manager Praises Arctic Underdogs Following “The Miracle in Rome”: ‘It Was Extraordinary’

Bodo/Glimt’s coach, Kjetil Knutsen, is convinced that his team’s remarkable journey to the semi-finals of the Europa League could serve as a significant turning point for Norwegian football in the years to come.

Throughout the match, Knutsen experienced a whirlwind of emotions, struggling to comprehend that the players from the Arctic Circle had managed to achieve one of the tournament’s most astonishing upsets.

“This match was incredibly challenging. It was a rollercoaster, and for us to make a comeback was absolutely extraordinary. The fact that we turned the game in our favour speaks volumes about our mentality. It’s absolutely brilliant for Glimt and for Norwegian football. It shows that anything is possible,” a visibly moved Knutsen told Viaplay after the game.

“I haven’t had the chance to fully process it yet, but I’m certainly touched and incredibly proud. There are so many emotions that are hard to articulate. This team is made up of players who struggled initially but then became a truly exceptional unit,” Knutsen shared with NRK and the rest of the media in Rome.

Knutsen believes that the success of Bodo/Glimt can inspire other clubs across Norway.

“I hope we set an example for all other teams. If we can achieve this, then so can others. We have demonstrated our capabilities on the international stage, which will likely attract more players to our club. This could be a landmark moment for Norwegian football,” he remarked.

Bodo/Glimt is set to face Tottenham Hotspur in the first leg of the semi-final in London on 1 May, with the return fixture taking place in Norway on 8 May.