Champions League: Inter Eliminated by Bodø/Glimt
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Key Takeaways:
- Bodø/Glimt stun Inter Milan with a 5-2 aggregate victory, marking one of the biggest upsets in recent Champions League history.
- Atlético Madrid and Newcastle United advance convincingly, securing their spots in the round of 16 ahead of Friday's draw.
- The round of 16 draw on February 27 sets the stage for potential high-stakes rivalries, with favorites like Arsenal and Bayern Munich eyeing strong paths.
Bodø/Glimt Eliminate Inter Milan in Historic Upset
Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt produced a stunning comeback in the knockout phase play-offs, defeating Inter Milan 2-1 in the second leg to win 5-2 on aggregate. After a 3-1 first-leg victory at home, Bodø/Glimt held firm in Milan despite pressure from the Serie A leaders. Inter's elimination came despite being favorites pre-match, with Bodø/Glimt's resilient defending and counter-attacks proving decisive. Alexander Sorloth and teammates capitalized on opportunities, continuing their impressive European run.
This result shakes up the competition significantly. Inter, a perennial contender, exits early, opening the field for underdogs. Bodø/Glimt's progression highlights the expanded format's unpredictability, where smaller clubs can thrive against giants. For bettors, this underscores value in backing motivated outsiders in knockout ties.
Atlético Madrid Overpower Club Brugge to Reach Last 16
Atlético Madrid secured advancement with a dominant 4-1 second-leg win over Club Brugge, triumphing 7-4 on aggregate. Alexander Sorloth starred with a hat-trick, building on a 3-3 first-leg draw. The Rojiblancos' experience in knockout football shone through, with strong finishing and defensive solidity at home proving too much for the Belgians.
This victory reinforces Atlético's status as a tough knockout opponent. Their qualification adds intrigue to the upcoming round of 16 draw, where they could face top seeds like Liverpool or Tottenham. In betting markets, Atlético's football match odds to progress deep improve, appealing to those favoring pragmatic sides in high-pressure matches.
Newcastle United Cruise Past Qarabag into Round of 16
Newcastle United confirmed their place in the last 16 with a 3-2 second-leg victory over Qarabag, winning 9-3 on aggregate. Following a 6-1 first-leg thrashing, goals from Joelinton and others ensured progression despite a spirited Qarabag response. This marks Newcastle's first Champions League round of 16 appearance in the modern era.
The result boosts Newcastle's momentum under Eddie Howe. As a Premier League representative, their advancement strengthens English clubs' presence. Bettors note Newcastle's attacking flair, potentially shortening their outright Champions League odds post-draw.
Upcoming Round of 16 Draw and Betting Implications
The UEFA Champions League round of 16, quarter-final, and semi-final draw occurs on February 27 at 12:00 CET in Nyon. Confirmed qualifiers include Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester City, Sporting CP, plus recent advancers like Atlético Madrid, Newcastle United, Bodø/Glimt, Bayer Leverkusen, and pending Wednesday results (e.g., PSG vs Monaco, Real Madrid vs Benfica, Juventus vs Galatasaray, Borussia Dortmund vs Atalanta).
Potential clashes include Real Madrid vs Manchester City rematches or Bayern vs Dortmund derbies. Favorites like Arsenal (around 4/1) and Bayern Munich (5/1) lead outright markets, with PSG and Manchester City at 8/1. The draw heightens betting interest, particularly on matchups involving English sides or classic rivalries.
These developments emphasize the 2025/26 season's competitiveness. Upsets like Bodø/Glimt's enhance player experience and unpredictability, while strong performances from established teams maintain betting appeal on regulation-impacting outcomes and partnerships.
