Bodø/Glimt is gearing up for a historic showdown in the UEFA Champions League as they prepare to take on the 1991 European champions, Crvena zvezda. This match marks a significant moment for Bodø/Glimt, as they aim to secure a spot in the Champions League proper for the first time in their history. The Norwegian champions have only participated in the competition three times before, with their current journey marking their second time reaching this stage. In contrast, Crvena zvezda has a more established presence in the tournament, having featured in the group stage in three of the last six seasons, including the 2023/24 campaign.
This encounter between Bodø/Glimt and Crvena zvezda is the first time these two clubs will face off on the European stage. The first leg of their play-off tie will take place in Norway, with the return fixture scheduled to be held in Belgrade on August 28th.
Form Guide
Bodø/Glimt
Bodø/Glimt is venturing into uncharted territory as they gear up for their first-ever match against a Serbian club. The Norwegian side is eager to make history by becoming the first team from Norway to reach the Champions League proper since Rosenborg achieved the feat in the 2007/08 season.
Having only participated in the Champions League twice before, Bodø/Glimt’s most recent campaign saw them progress through three qualifying rounds before eventually falling to Dinamo Zagreb in the 2022/23 play-offs. Despite their elimination, the experience gained from that journey has undoubtedly prepared them for the challenges ahead.
In the 2023/24 season, Bodø/Glimt made a strong showing in the UEFA Europa Conference League, reaching the group stage after starting in the second qualifying round. They finished second in their group behind Club Brugge but ahead of Beşiktaş and Lugano, before being knocked out by Ajax in the knockout round play-offs.
The current season has seen Bodø/Glimt continue their impressive form, with victories in the second qualifying round against RFS of Latvia and Jagiellonia Białystok of Poland. Their strong home record in European competitions, winning seven of their last nine matches, highlights their prowess on familiar turf.
Crvena zvezda
Crvena zvezda boasts a rich history in European competitions, with a record of six wins, one draw, and two losses against Norwegian clubs. However, their recent away form has been less than stellar, with seven consecutive losses in European fixtures.
The Serbian club is no stranger to the Champions League play-offs, having previously secured victories against Salzburg and Young Boys to reach the group stage. While their last attempt in the play-offs ended in defeat against Maccabi Haifa, Crvena zvezda is determined to bounce back and secure a spot in the Champions League proper this season.
Despite their recent struggles on the road, Crvena zvezda remains a formidable force in domestic competitions, clinching their seventh consecutive Serbian league title in the 2023/24 season. Their success in the league, coupled with their strong showing in the Serbian Cup, underscores their dominance in the domestic scene.
Links and Trivia
One interesting connection between the two clubs is the loan spell of Crvena zvezda goalkeeper Marko Ilić at Norwegian club Sarpsborg. During his time on loan from Colorado Rapids, Ilić faced off against Bodø/Glimt in a match that ended in a 2-1 defeat for Sarpsborg. This personal link adds an intriguing subplot to the upcoming clash between Bodø/Glimt and Crvena zvezda.
Overall, the stage is set for an epic showdown between Bodø/Glimt and Crvena zvezda as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the UEFA Champions League proper. With history on the line and a fierce competitive spirit driving both sides, fans can expect a thrilling encounter that will showcase the best of European football.