Royale Union Saint-Gilloise is set to embark on its European campaign this Tuesday in Ostende, facing off against Norwegian club Bodo/Glimt in the pivotal third qualifying round of the 2026/2027 UEFA Champions League.
Following their recent triumph in the Belgian Supercup over Club Bruges, secured via a penalty shootout, Union Saint-Gilloise will contest its inaugural European fixture of the 2026/2027 season. This significant encounter is scheduled for Tuesday at 8:00 PM in Ostende and will be broadcast live on RTL club and RTL play.
Under the guidance of coach David Hubert, the team aims to secure a second consecutive appearance in the prestigious Champions League. Their challenge begins with the first leg of the third – and penultimate – qualifying round against Norwegian opponents Bodo/Glimt. The decisive return fixture is slated for August 11 in Bodo.
The formidable challenge of Bodo/Glimt
However, this challenge is far from straightforward. Bodo/Glimt proved to be a formidable surprise package in last year’s Champions League, progressing beyond the league phase. They notably eliminated Inter Milan in the play-offs before a strong showing against Sporting CP in the round of sixteen, where they secured a 3-0 first-leg victory before ultimately being knocked out.
Furthermore, Bodo/Glimt is expected to arrive in Ostende in peak condition. Their Norwegian league season commenced in March, and they currently sit atop the standings, boasting an impressive run of five consecutive victories.
Union Saint-Gilloise will field a nearly complete squad for the fixture. The sole absentee will be Hervé Koffi, a recent acquisition from Lens, who remains unavailable to coach Hubert. During Monday’s press conference, Hubert described the upcoming match as “a significant test against a formidable opponent.”
Despite the recent departures of key players Christian Burgess and Kjell Scherpen, the Brussels-based club demonstrated a serious and competent display in the Supercup. Bodo/Glimt’s coach, Kjetil Knutsen, who meticulously reviewed all of Union’s pre-season friendly matches, expressed his belief that his team is “thoroughly prepared.”
Should Union emerge victorious from this two-legged tie, they will advance to the play-offs, where they would encounter either Greek side Olympiakos or Dutch club NEC Nimègue. The second leg of that potential tie would also be hosted in Ostende. Conversely, a defeat against Bodo/Glimt would see the club transition to the Europa League group stage.
