Sporting CP produced a commanding performance to reach the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, thrashing FK Bodø/Glimt 5-0 after extra time to overturn a first-leg deficit and progress 5-3 on aggregate.
Trailing 3-0 from the first leg, Sporting needed a strong response at the Estádio José Alvalade and delivered emphatically, dominating the second leg before sealing qualification with two additional goals in extra time.
The Portuguese side set the tone early, applying sustained pressure on the visitors’ defence and creating several chances in the opening stages.
Their persistence paid off in the 33rd minute when defender Gonçalo Inácio rose highest from a corner to head home and give Sporting a deserved lead on the night.
Despite the early breakthrough, Bodø/Glimt remained ahead on aggregate at half-time, with the scoreline at 1-0. The Norwegian side, who had impressed in the first leg, struggled to replicate that form as Sporting tightened their grip on proceedings after the restart.
The hosts doubled their advantage in the 60th minute through Pedro Gonçalves, who finished clinically inside the area to bring the tie back within reach.
Momentum continued to swing in Sporting’s favour, and they drew level on aggregate in the 77th minute when Luis Suárez converted from the penalty spot after a foul in the box.
With the aggregate score locked at 3-3, the match moved into extra time, where Sporting maintained control and showed greater composure. Just minutes into the additional period, Maximiliano Araújo extended the lead with a well-taken finish, putting the hosts ahead in the tie for the first time.
Bodø/Glimt attempted to respond but found it difficult to break down a disciplined Sporting defence, with goalkeeper Rui Silva making a key save to deny a headed effort during extra time.
Sporting then sealed the result late on when substitute Rafael Nel added a fifth goal, finishing from a tight angle after a move down the right flank to cap a dominant display.
The result completes a remarkable turnaround for Sporting, who had been comprehensively beaten in the first leg but responded with authority in front of their home supporters.
For Bodø/Glimt, the defeat marks a disappointing end to what had been a strong European campaign, having held a significant advantage heading into the second leg.
Sporting now advance to the quarter-finals, with their convincing victory underlining their attacking strength and resilience as they continue their pursuit of European success.
