No one could have predicted the astonishing turn of events that unfolded on the artificial turf in Norway during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 group stage. Pep Guardiola’s decision to shake up Manchester City’s lineup—following their earlier disappointment against Manchester United—seemed, on paper, to inject new energy into the side. With superstars like Erling Haaland and Phil Foden still leading the charge, City fans had every reason to feel optimistic about their team’s prospects. Yet football, as it tends to do, delivered nothing short of a dramatic script flip.
A dream start for Bodo/Glimt leaves City reeling
The nightmare for the English giants began in the 22nd minute. A swift surge down the right flank by Blomberg ended with a perfectly tailored cross. Kasper Hogh rose above City defenders, beating Gianluigi Donnarumma with a clinical header that sent shockwaves through Manchester City’s backline and traveling supporters alike.
Before Guardiola’s men could regain composure, disaster struck again just two minutes later. A costly error by young Max Alleyne handed possession straight back to Bodo/Glimt, setting up another combination between Blomberg and Hogh. With predatory instinct, Hogh doubled the score, leaving City’s patched-up defense in shambles. The reigning Premier League champions appeared stunned and vulnerable—unable to find cohesion, repeatedly exposed by their hosts’ relentless pace and unwavering determination.
Second-half setback: when City’s troubles deepened
If Manchester City hoped the interval would stem the tide, those hopes evaporated swiftly. The 58th minute provided one of the match’s most breathtaking moments. Jens Petter Hauge unleashed a long-range rocket, the ball arcing with precision into the far top corner, expanding Bodo/Glimt’s lead to a scarcely believable 3-0.
This spellbinding strike symbolized Bodo/Glimt’s hunger and belief, while simultaneously casting a heavy pall over City’s European ambitions.
Rayan Cherki offered City fans a faint glimmer of hope just two minutes later. Displaying composure in a crowded penalty area, Cherki buried a smart finish to reduce the deficit to 1-3. Was a miracle comeback about to unfold?
Breaking point: discipline lost, hopes dashed
As City pressed forward, searching for another quick goal, their night took an irreversible turn. Within the span of a single, astonishing 53 seconds, Rodri—fresh from his 2024 Ballon d’Or triumph—picked up two yellow cards for needless fouls. Reduced to 10 men from the 62nd minute, City’s task shifted from improbable to nearly impossible.
The ensuing minutes were a stern test of stamina and spirit for the visitors. Bodo/Glimt’s attacks continued to threaten, and if not for Donnarumma’s reflexes, City could have endured an even heftier defeat. Meanwhile, Erling Haaland—so often the focal point of City’s firepower—found himself smothered by his Norwegian contemporaries, unable to make a meaningful impact as the minutes ticked down.
The aftermath: lasting implications and unanswered questions
When the final whistle sounded, the scoreboard read 3-1 in favor of Bodo/Glimt, etching a new chapter in their club’s history. For Manchester City, the repercussions of this result stretch well beyond mere embarrassment:
- Their defensive vulnerabilities have been ruthlessly exposed.
- Star players like Haaland and Rodri must bounce back amid mounting pressure.
- Qualification for the next round now hangs precariously on the final matchday.