Tottenham Hotspur edged closer to a UEFA Europa League final after a spirited 3-1 first-leg win over Norwegian side FK Bodø/Glimt at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. A blistering start, clinical finishing, and home dominance defined this semi-final showdown—but a late goal keeps the tie alive ahead of a tricky second leg in Norway.
⚡ Dream Start for Spurs
Tottenham couldn’t have scripted a better opening. Within just 38 seconds, the hosts drew first blood. A determined Yves Bissouma won possession, Pedro Porro delivered a perfect cross, Richarlison nodded it across the goal, and Brennan Johnson was on hand to head home. That lightning-fast goal sent the home crowd into a frenzy and rattled the Norwegian champions.
Spurs continued to press with intensity, nearly doubling their lead in the sixth minute. James Maddison latched onto Cristian Romero’s long ball, only to volley over the bar. Bodø/Glimt were pinned back, struggling to create any rhythm or offensive threat.
🎯 Maddison Magic and Total Control
Tottenham’s pressure eventually paid off again in the 34th minute. Porro, influential throughout, launched another accurate long ball toward Maddison. The midfielder’s awkward, scuffed shot wrong-footed goalkeeper Nikita Haikin and crept into the far corner—his 10th goal contribution of the competition.
Moments later, Haikin denied a third with a brilliant save from Rodrigo Bentancur’s volley. Bodø/Glimt’s best chance of the half came in stoppage time when Ole Didrik Blomberg flicked a cross just over, offering a glimmer of hope for the visitors.
✅ Penalty Precision and Injury Woes
Tottenham made it 3-0 shortly after the break. A mistimed clearance by Fredrik Sjøvold resulted in Romero being clipped in the box. After a brief VAR check, the referee pointed to the spot. Dominic Solanke, cool as ice, slotted it home to stretch Spurs’ lead.
However, not all went smoothly for the North Londoners. Both Maddison and Solanke limped off with what looked like precautionary injuries. With a congested schedule ahead, Spurs fans will be hoping for quick recoveries.
⚠️ Late Twist Gives Bodø/Glimt a Lifeline
With the game seemingly under control, Tottenham allowed Bodø/Glimt back in. Captain Ulrik Saltnes scored from the edge of the box with a heavily deflected strike that wrong-footed Bentancur and Matz Sels. That 83rd-minute goal marked the visitors’ first shot on target—and it could prove crucial.
Given their trend of losing away and winning home ties in this competition, the Norwegians may be confident of a comeback. Spurs, on the other hand, must remain sharp for the second leg.
🏆 What’s Next?
Spurs take a 3-1 lead into next week’s second leg in Norway. But Ange Postecoglou’s men will be wary—Bodø/Glimt have a 100% home win record in knockout rounds this season. With both Maddison and Solanke doubtful, squad depth will be tested.
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🔍 Final Thoughts
Tottenham were dominant but not flawless. The early goals set the tone, but conceding late leaves the door slightly ajar. With European history on the line, both sides have plenty to play for in what promises to be an electrifying second leg.
