Inter Milan vs Bodø/Glimt Preview: Nerazzurri Chase Champions League Comeback at San Siro

Inter Milan welcome Bodø/Glimt to San Siro for a decisive Champions League second leg that carries both pressure and possibility. After suffering a 3–1 defeat in Norway, the Nerazzurri must overturn a two-goal deficit if they are to reach the round of 16. For Inter, it is about response and redemption. For Bodø/Glimt, it is about finishing what they started and continuing a remarkable European journey.

The first leg at Aspmyra sent shockwaves across the competition. Bodø/Glimt were fearless, clinical and composed, securing a 3–1 victory that underlined their growing reputation on the European stage.

In their last three Champions League matches, they have beaten Inter, Atlético Madrid and Manchester City a sequence that speaks volumes about their belief and tactical clarity. Head coach Kjetil Knutsen has insisted his side will not retreat in Milan, stating that they must attack the game rather than simply protect their advantage.

Inter, meanwhile, are determined to respond. Midfielder Petar Sučić called for calm in the aftermath of the first leg, emphasising the need to believe in a comeback at home. San Siro has often been a fortress on European nights, and although Inter have lost their last two Champions League home fixtures, their overall record at the stadium remains strong. They have scored 86 goals in 38 matches across all competitions this season, averaging more than two per game, and will rely on that attacking firepower to turn the tie around.

Team selection will be crucial. Inter are without captain Lautaro Martínez, who suffered a calf injury in the first leg a significant blow both tactically and emotionally. In his absence, Marcus Thuram is expected to lead the line alongside Francesco Pio Esposito, who scored Inter’s only goal in Norway. Thuram, who has not scored in his last seven Champions League appearances, will be under pressure to rediscover his European touch on a night where Inter need cutting edge more than ever.

The probable Inter line-up sees Sommer in goal behind a back three of Bisseck, Akanji and Bastoni. Luis Henrique and Dimarco are expected to operate as wing-backs, with Barella, Zieliński and Mkhitaryan in midfield. Up front, Thuram and Esposito will carry the attacking responsibility. Bodø/Glimt are likely to start with Haikin in goal, a back four of Sjøvold, Bjørtuft, Gundersen and Bjørkan, with Berg anchoring midfield alongside Evjen and Brunstad Fet. Blomberg, Høgh and Jens Petter Hauge who has scored in each of their recent high-profile wins provide pace and directness in attack.

For Bodø/Glimt, the mindset is clear. They arrive in Milan with confidence, momentum and far less pressure. This is their first Champions League campaign, yet they have played with maturity beyond their experience. With a two-goal cushion, they can remain compact and look to exploit space on the counter, especially against an Inter side that will inevitably push forward.

The tactical battle will revolve around tempo and emotional control. Inter must attack without losing structure, while Bodø/Glimt must balance bravery with discipline. An early goal for the hosts could transform the atmosphere and shift the momentum dramatically. Conversely, a goal for the visitors would leave Inter with a mountain to climb.

This second leg promises tension and intensity. Inter are chasing survival in the competition, driven by home support and the weight of expectation. Bodø/Glimt are chasing history, aiming to eliminate another European heavyweight and confirm their status as the surprise package of this season’s tournament.

At San Siro, under the lights, everything remains possible.