Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham side will host Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt tonight in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League semi-final, with the aim of seizing control of the tie before heading into more hostile terrain next week.
It’s been a rollercoaster season for Tottenham. What began with Premier League struggles and injury setbacks could now end with silverware, something the North London club hasn’t lifted since 2008.
Their progress through the knockout stages, with strong performances against AZ Alkmaar and Eintracht Frankfurt, has reignited hope of finally ending the 16-year trophy drought.
The challenge before them is huge. Bodo/Glimt, a team that shocked Europe in recent years, arrives in London after eliminating Olympiacos and Lazio in the earlier rounds.
Though still in the early stages of their domestic season due to Norway’s colder climate, the visitors cannot be underestimated, especially given their remarkable home record. On their artificial pitch in the Arctic Circle, they have remained unbeaten since November.
That makes tonight’s first leg crucial for Tottenham. Postecoglou will hope to capitalize on home advantage and put the tie beyond doubt before the return leg in challenging Scandinavian conditions.
The absence of captain Son Heung-min due to injury is a blow, but the form of Mathys Tel on the left wing offers encouragement.
Tottenham will need to be clinical and cautious in equal measure — a commanding result at home could prove vital in navigating what promises to be a grueling second leg away from North London.
