In a remarkable turn of events, Bodø/Glimt eliminated last year's Champions League finalist Inter Milan, achieving a stunning aggregate score of 5-2. This unexpected win was made even more astounding by the fact that the team fielded a lineup that cost little to put together, which has raised eyebrows in the football community. Carl-Erik Torp, a Norwegian football expert who witnessed the match in Milan, described the victory as 'completely surreal'.

The financial backdrop of the team's success has been a focal point of discussions, particularly how players like Nikita Haikin and Fredrik Sjøvold were acquired at no cost. Haikin returned to Bodø after his contract with Bristol City was terminated earlier in the year, and Sjøvold moved from a lower division team before the 2022 season. Additionally, team captain Patrick Berg was reunited with Bodø/Glimt after a successful stint in France that saw the club recoup more than his purchase price. These factors highlight the extraordinary nature of the squad's success and raise questions about the economics of football.

Torp's comments underscore the incredible nature of Bodø/Glimt's ascent in the football world over the past decade, reflecting a significant shift in how lower-budget clubs can compete on the international stage. This match not only propels Bodø/Glimt further into the Champions League but also serves as a testament to the club's strategic management and ability to scout talent effectively, resonating with the growing narrative of underdog success in sports.