When Bodo/Glimt manager Kjetil Knutsen stepped into the nearly empty press room of the KVDO Arena in Ostende on Monday, he knew one thing for certain: his side would face a formidable opponent in Union Saint-Gilloise. “They play a physical, direct style,” Knutsen told reporters. “We’re aware of both their strengths and weaknesses, but we also have our own identity. We’ve got a solid game plan and we intend to take control of the match. Our team is built to attack, whether at home or away—we won’t just sit back for 95 minutes.”
European pedigree meets Belgian ambition
Union Saint-Gilloise and Bodo/Glimt have crossed paths before—once, in October 2024, during the Europa League group stage. That night in Brussels ended goalless, but Knutsen sees a team that has evolved since then. “A few familiar faces remain, but the club has transformed,” he explained. “They bring young talent through their system, develop them, and sell them on for a profit—just like we do. Neither may be among Europe’s giants, but both have grown over the years. In Belgium, they’re one of the top two teams alongside Club Bruges, and they’re doing an outstanding job.”
The Norwegian outfit arrives fresh off a knockout-phase run that saw them knock out Manchester City and Atlético Madrid, sending shockwaves through European football. Union, meanwhile, have quietly established themselves as a consistent force in Belgium, combining youth development with competitive results.
“We respect every opponent,” Knutsen added, “but we go into every game with the belief that we can dictate the tempo. This isn’t about survival—it’s about playing our football and imposing our rhythm.”
