Two Norwegian teams in European Cup action
Here’s what to expect
For Norwegian football fans, the early months of 2026 have been historic and thrilling as two clubs from Norway have taken their place on European football’s biggest stages. Both teams are representing Norway in UEFA club competition — one in the elite UEFA Champions League and another gearing up for European qualifiers. Here’s a breakdown of where they stand and what to expect, prepared by the team behind Betsjekk.com - the best place to find betting offers in Norway.
1. FK Bodø/Glimt — Champions League dark horses
Arguably the biggest story in European football this season comes from the Champions League, where Bodø/Glimt have turned heads across the continent.
- The Arctic-based club pulled off a shock win over Italian giants Inter Milan, beating them 2-1 at the San Siro and winning their tie 5-2 on aggregate — qualifying for the Round of 16. This is the first knockout tie victory for a Norwegian club in the Champions League era.
- Their remarkable run has included wins against major sides like Manchester City and Atlético Madrid earlier in the group phase, before beating Inter, highlighting just how competitive Bodø/Glimt have become.
- Tactically strong, with relentless team play and clever pressing, Bodø/Glimt embody the underdog spirit often praised in football. They’ve stunned the football world with their consistency and confidence against elite competition.
What to watch next: After their upset over Inter, Bodø/Glimt now await the Champions League Round of 16 draw, which could see them face teams like Manchester City again, setting up compelling rematches on an even bigger stage.
Expectations: Fans should anticipate high-intensity European nights. Whether or not they go further than the Round of 16, this campaign has firmly placed the Norwegian club on the continental map.
2. Viking FK — European qualifiers and continental return
While Bodø/Glimt shine in the elite Champions League spotlight, Viking FK are also gearing up for continental action:
- Viking earned huge domestic success by winning the Eliteserien title, their first Norwegian league championship since 1991, which positions them for European qualification in the coming season.
- For the 2025/26 season, Viking participated in the UEFA Europa Conference League, competing in the qualifying rounds.
- Looking ahead to 2026–27 European competitions, Viking are set to enter the Champions League qualifiers, giving them a chance to reach the group stages of Europe’s premier club tournament for the first time in the club’s history.
What to watch next: Viking’s journey through Champions League qualifying rounds will be closely followed, as progressing to the group stage would be a milestone moment for the Stavanger side.
Expectations: Viking’s European experience might not rival Bodø/Glimt’s recent fairy-tale run, but their domestic momentum and qualification for continental qualifiers positions them as a club on the rise, one capable of competing with seasoned European teams.
In conclusion, fans of Norwegian football have plenty to follow and be proud of — from Bodø/Glimt’s historic Champions League run to Viking’s qualification challenges and domestic dominance. Whether it’s thrilling knockout football against European giants or the exciting prospect of seeing Viking in Champions League qualifiers, expectations should be high, and the momentum continues to build for Norway on the continental stage.
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