Richarlison’s late equaliser earns Tottenham a point vs Bodø/Glimt

When Richarlison, forward for Tottenham Hotspur turned a looming defeat into a salvaged point with a last‑minute own‑goal, the atmosphere at Aspmyra Stadion shifted from disbelief to relief. The drama unfolded on 30 September 2025, the opening night of the UEFA Champions League Group Stage, when Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt seemed poised to claim their first ever victory in Europe’s premier club competition.

Match Overview

Refereed by Ivan Kružliak, the game attracted 7,988 fans who witnessed a seesaw battle that ended 2‑2. Jens Petter Hauge opened the scoring in the 53rd minute, volleying home after a quick break. He doubled the lead just thirteen minutes later, sending the home crowd into a roar.

Tottenham, fielding a 4‑3‑3 under Antonio Conte, responded swiftly. Micky van de Ven headed in from a corner in the 68th minute, sparking a frantic chase for the equaliser. With the clock ticking, Richarlison’s forward run forced defender Jostein Gundersen into his own net in the 89th minute – a cruel twist that secured a single point for the visitors.

Key Moments and Tactical Shifts

Both managers stuck to a 4‑3‑3, but their in‑game adjustments told a story. Bodø/Glimt’s coach pushed Patrick Berg, the captain, deeper to shield the backline after the first goal, while still allowing Håkon Evjen to make late runs into the box.

Tottenham’s midfield trio – Lucas Bergvall, Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Sarr – began to press higher after the 66th minute, limiting the Norwegian side’s supply lines. The shift paid off when a loose ball from a cleared corner fell to Richarlison, forcing Gundersen’s mishap.

Injury Lists and Squad Depth

Both clubs entered the match with notable absences. Bodø/Glimt were without Magnus Brøndbo (on international duty) and the injured duo Ulrik Saltnes and Ola Brynhildsen. Tottenham, meanwhile, fielded a lineup missing eight regulars, including Cristian Romero, Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison – a testament to their bench depth.

Statistically, the match was tight: both sides recorded 12 shots, with Bodø/Glimt on target 5 times versus Tottenham’s 4. Possession hovered around 51 % for the hosts, marginally higher than the English side’s 49 %.

Reactions from Coaches and Players

After the final whistle, Tottenham manager Antonio Conte praised his players’ resilience. “We knew we were under pressure, but the squad showed character. Richarlison’s hustle made the difference,” he said in a post‑match interview.

Bodø/Glimt’s coach, although disappointed, highlighted the performance: “We created the chances, we were in control for long periods. A single mistake shouldn’t erase a solid display.” Hauge, who scored both goals, added, “I’m proud, but we’ll learn from this – the group is still wide open.”

Implications for the Group Stage

The draw keeps Tottenham perched on three points after two games, still within striking distance of the group leaders. Their next fixture against Club Brugge will be decisive.

Bodø/Glimt, meanwhile, sit on two points. A win in their remaining matches could see them finish mid‑table, a historic achievement for a club that only entered the Champions League last season.

Looking Ahead

Both teams now turn to their upcoming domestic commitments. Tottenham will face a crucial Premier League clash against Arsenal, while Bodø/Glimt’s next Eliteserien match pits them against Rosenborg. The balance of squad rotation, injury management, and tactical tweaks will shape their fortunes both at home and abroad.

Key Facts

• Venue: Aspmyra Stadion, Bodø, Norway
• Date & Time: 30 September 2025, 19:00 UTC
• Final Score: Bodø/Glimt 2 – 2 Tottenham Hotspur
• Goal scorers: Jens Petter Hauge (53’, 66’), Micky van de Ven (68’), own‑goal by Jostein Gundersen (89’)
• Referee: Ivan Kružliak (Czech Republic)