Can Inter stage a comeback against Bodø/Glimt?

The return leg of the Champions League Round of 32 between Inter Milan and Bodø/Glimt promises to be a real test for Cristian Chivu’s side. In the first match, the Norwegians secured a 3–1 victory, meaning the Nerazzurri now need to win by at least two goals to keep their hopes of progressing alive.

Squad situation

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Henrikh Mkhitaryan has a 55% chance of starting, competing with Petar Sučić for a place in the lineup. For the Armenian midfielder, this match could mark a milestone — his 80th appearance in the Champions League.

Inter have suffered significant losses: captain Lautaro Martínez and Hakan Çalhanoğlu will miss the game due to injuries. The absence of the Argentine striker is particularly painful. However, Pio Esposito, Mkhitaryan, Federico Dimarco, and Piotr Zieliński are in good form and are expected to carry the main attacking responsibility.

Bodø/Glimt have no major injury concerns, and Kjetil Knutsen’s team approaches the match close to full strength.

A dangerous opponent

It is important to note that Bodø/Glimt are not only strong at home. The Norwegians also perform confidently away from home: this season they defeated Atlético Madrid (2–1) and drew with Borussia Dortmund (2–2). The team relies on athletic and fast-paced football, presses aggressively, and operates effectively in midfield. Leading the attack is Kasper Høgh — a powerful and clinical striker.

At the same time, the Norwegians do have weaknesses — they often make mistakes near their own goal and allow opponents to create chances. If Inter defend solidly and avoid lapses, the Milan side will have a chance for a convincing victory.

Historical context for Mkhitaryan

For Henrikh Mkhitaryan, this match could carry special significance. He is among the 22 players with the most Champions League appearances without ever winning the tournament. The leaders in this category are Zlatan Ibrahimović and Gianluigi Buffon (124 matches each).

There is also a more painful statistic: Mkhitaryan is one of only six players in tournament history who have played at least two finals without lifting the trophy. Buffon lost three finals, while Mkhitaryan, Michael Ballack, Leonardo Bonucci, Koke, and Mats Hummels lost two each.

Inter now face a daunting task — overturning a two-goal deficit against an organized and fearless Bodø/Glimt side. But perhaps these are exactly the kinds of matches that mark the beginning of great stories. Mkhitaryan has already reached two finals — why not try for a third and finally lift the coveted trophy?