Bodo/Glimt’s remarkable Champions League journey came to an end after Sporting mounted a stunning comeback to overturn a three-goal first-leg deficit and secure qualification for the quarter-finals after extra time.
The Norwegian side had stunned many by reaching the knockout stage on their debut and appeared firmly in control of the tie after a commanding 3-0 victory in the first leg. However, they faced a daunting challenge away in Portugal against a strong Sporting side.
Sporting dominated proceedings from the start, applying sustained pressure before Goncalo Inacio broke the deadlock with a headed effort. Despite being largely on the defensive, Bodo/Glimt threatened briefly, with Odin Bjortuft hitting the woodwork from a corner.
The hosts intensified their attack in the second half, reducing the deficit when Pedro Goncalves fired home after being set up by Luis Suarez. The momentum continued to swing in Sporting’s favour, and they drew level on aggregate when Suarez converted from the penalty spot following a VAR review for handball against Fredrik Bjorkan.
Sporting came close to sealing victory in normal time, with Nuno Santos striking the post, but the contest eventually went into extra time.
The decisive moment arrived early in extra time when Maxi Araujo drove in to put Sporting ahead on aggregate for the first time in the tie.
Rafael Nel later added another goal to complete the turnaround and seal a memorable victory for the Portuguese side.
Despite the defeat, Bodo/Glimt leave the competition with pride after an impressive campaign that saw them become the first Norwegian club to reach the Champions League knockout stage.
