Champions League review: Italian struggles, Mourinho’s bus exile and a jubilant journeyman

Guardian Sport

by John Brewin

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Champions League knockout stage saw a thrilling round of matches, with Bodø/Glimt continuing their fairy-tale run by defeating Inter Milan 2-1 at San Siro. Despite Inter’s status as Serie A leaders and their early dominance in the match, they struggled to overcome the Norwegian team’s high-speed attacking play. Even without Lautaro Martínez, Inter’s star striker, Bodø/Glimt proved too strong, securing a historic victory that keeps their championship hopes alive. The post-match conversation between Inter coach Cristian Chivu and Bodø/Glimt’s Kjetil Knutsen highlighted the respect for the Norwegian team’s performance. Chivu acknowledged how difficult it was to contain their quick counterattacks, which had already given them a 3-1 lead from the first leg. Despite Inter’s control in the early stages, they failed to find a way through, ultimately falling victim to Bodø/Glimt’s relentless pace and creativity. This season has been a rollercoaster for Bodø/Glimt, a team that started in Norway’s second tier just three years ago but now finds itself on the brink of a historic title. Their ability to compete with Europe’s elite has rewritten perceptions about Norwegian football and showcased the potential of young, dynamic teams in the Champions League. The match against Inter was a masterclass in attacking football, proving that even smaller clubs can rise to the occasion when given the chance. For Inter Milan, the defeat adds to their struggles this season. Despite their dominance in the early stages, they struggled to convert chances and were ultimately outclassed by a team with nothing to lose. The absence of key players like Martínez and the defensive injuries that plagued them throughout the match left them vulnerable. Their inability to secure a comeback despite their superior positioning in the league table raises questions

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/26/2026