Ex-FIFA official expects fine to be dished out after what happened in Tottenham win v Bodo/Glimt
Tottenham Hotspur delivered a statement performance on Thursday night, dismantling Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt 3-1 in the first leg of their Europa League semifinal.
The emphatic victory puts Ange Postecoglou’s men firmly in the driver’s seat ahead of next week’s return fixture in Scandinavia, with a potential all-English final against Manchester United now looming large.
From the opening whistle, Spurs looked determined to make their mark. Brennan Johnson needed just 60 seconds to break the deadlock, nodding home after a slick combination between Pedro Porro and Richarlison.
The early goal set the tone for a dominant display, with James Maddison doubling the lead before limping off with an injury. Dominic Solanke then added a third from the penalty spot, ensuring Tottenham took a commanding lead into the second leg—despite conceding a late consolation goal that slightly marred an otherwise flawless night.
While the scoreline reflected Spurs’ superiority, Bodo/Glimt’s pre-match antics hinted at their desperation. The visitors delayed kickoff by huddling for an extended team talk, a psychological ploy that backfired spectacularly.
UEFA’s strict regulations on punctuality mean the Norwegian outfit now faces a €10,000 fine—a trivial sum in football terms, but a symbolic embarrassment for a team already outclassed on the pitch.
Former FIFA official Keith Hackett confirmed the inevitable punishment, noting that referees must adhere to strict timing protocols for broadcast commitments.
“The referee could have intervened, but Bodo/Glimt will be fined regardless,” he said. The delayed start did little to disrupt Tottenham’s rhythm, as Postecoglou’s side executed their game plan with ruthless efficiency.
Statistically, the match told an interesting story. Despite having just 41% possession, Spurs outshot their opponents 7-1 on target, showcasing their clinical edge.
Bodo/Glimt, who had previously stunned Lazio in the quarterfinals, found themselves overwhelmed by Tottenham’s intensity and precision. The Norwegian side’s 59% possession meant little in the face of Spurs’ incisive counterattacks and set-piece dominance.
For Postecoglou, the victory couldn’t have come at a better time. Under mounting pressure after a turbulent Premier League campaign, the Australian manager silenced critics—at least temporarily—by steering his team to the brink of a European final.
Questions about his long-term future at the club persist, but delivering Tottenham’s first major trophy in over a decade would etch his name into club folklore.
The second leg in Norway will demand professionalism, but with a two-goal cushion, Spurs are heavy favorites to advance. Should they finish the job, a showdown with Manchester United in Bilbao awaits—a tantalizing prospect for fans craving silverware.
For now, Postecoglou and his players can bask in a near-perfect performance, one that reaffirms their credentials as genuine Europa League contenders.
As the final whistle blew, the Tottenham faithful erupted in celebration, their chants echoing around the stadium.
The message was clear: this team, when firing on all cylinders, can compete with anyone. If they maintain this level in the second leg, a historic European final beckons—and with it, the chance to end years of frustration in the most glorious fashion possible.