Match Overview
Tottenham Hotspur secured a 3-1 first-leg victory over Bodø/Glimt in the Europa League semi-finals, despite a late consolation goal from the Norwegian side. Brennan Johnson’s record-breaking opener, James Maddison’s clinical strike, and Dominic Solanke’s penalty gave Spurs a commanding lead, but Ulrik Saltnes’ deflected goal injected late drama into the tie.
Key Stats
Possession: Tottenham 46% – 54% Bodø/Glimt
Shots on Target: Tottenham 6 – 1 Bodø/Glimt
Pass Accuracy: Tottenham 84% – 82% Bodø/Glimt
Fastest UEL Semi-Final Goal: Brennan Johnson (38 seconds).
Key Moments
1’ – Johnson’s Lightning Strike:
Johnson headed in from close range after a quick team move, breaking the record for the fastest goal in Europa League semi-final history.
34’ – Maddison’s Clinical Finish:
James Maddison doubled the lead with a deflected shot from the edge of the box, capitalizing on a precise long ball.
61’ – Solanke’s Penalty:
A foul on Cristian Romero led to a penalty, which Solanke converted calmly for his fourth European goal this season.
83’ – Saltnes’ Consolation:
Bodø/Glimt’s captain scored a deflected goal late on, marking their only shot on target.
Tactical Insights
Spurs’ Direct Play: Targeted crosses and quick transitions exploited Bodø’s high defensive line, with Pedro Porro providing two assists.
Bodø’s Possession Futility: Dominated possession but lacked creativity, managing just 0.6 expected goals (xG).
Defensive Discipline: Cristian Romero anchored Spurs’ backline, winning 100% of his aerial duels.
Post-Match Reactions
Tottenham’s Manager:
Praised the team’s efficiency but warned against complacency ahead of the second leg.
Bodø/Glimt’s Coach:
Highlighted the late goal as a “lifeline” and vowed to fight harder at home.
Implications for the Second Leg
Tottenham: Hold a 3-1 advantage but face a tricky away leg in Bodø’s Arctic conditions and on an artificial pitch.
Bodø/Glimt: Require a historic comeback to overturn the deficit.
Final Thoughts
Tottenham’s clinical finishing and defensive resilience put them in pole position to reach the Europa League final. Bodø/Glimt’s late goal offers a glimmer of hope, but Spurs’ quality and experience make them strong favorites to advance.
Second Leg: May 8, 2025 | Aspmyra Stadion, Bodø
Winner faces Manchester United in the final on May 21 in Bilbao.
