Bodo/Glimt host Sporting CP in historic Champions League last-16 tie
Norwegian outsiders Bodo/Glimt will continue their historic Champions League run when they host Portuguese title-holders Sporting CP in the first leg of their last-16 tie on Wednesday.
The modest club from a fishing town of just 55,000 residents has defied all expectations to reach the knockout stages of Europe’s premier competition.
Located above the Arctic Circle, the Norwegian outfit sits further north than any side to have previously competed at this elite level.
Giant-killing pedigree
The Eliteserien champions enter Wednesday’s clash boasting a remarkable four-match winning streak in the tournament.
This formidable run includes a stunning 3-1 home victory over Manchester City and a 2-1 triumph away against Atletico Madrid.
Crucially, the giant-killers also secured impressive home and away victories against last season’s runners-up Inter Milan.
These phenomenal European results were achieved despite the matches taking place during the domestic off-season in Scandinavia.
Plastic pitches and polar nights
Visiting teams must contend with severe geographical and climatic challenges when travelling to the 8,000-capacity Aspmyra Stadium.
The town experiences less than an hour of daylight during mid-winter, forcing the squad to take vitamin supplements to combat the lack of sun.
Temperatures for the evening kick-off against the Lisbon giants are forecast to hover around a bitterly cold 3C.
Furthermore, Sporting will have to adapt to playing on an artificial surface.
From elevator club to European elite
Founded in 1916, the yellow-and-black outfit endured a century-long wait before finally securing their maiden top-flight crown.
Historically regarded as a yo-yo team bouncing between divisions, their recent domestic dominance has been remarkably orchestrated by a manager with a background as a fighter pilot.
Plans are now under way to construct a new 10,000-seat Arctic Arena as this extraordinary sporting fairytale continues to unfold.
