Union saint-gilloise battles bodo glimt to a draw, champions league hopes hinge on norway clash

Royal Union Saint-Gilloise concluded the first leg of their Champions League third qualifying round tie with a 3-3 stalemate against Norway’s vice-champions, Bodo/Glimt, on Tuesday evening in Ostende.

The scoring began when Norwegian midfielder Berg found the net from a free-kick in the 20th minute, only for Florucz to swiftly equalize for Union Saint-Gilloise five minutes later (25th). Bodo/Glimt regained their lead through a Blomberg penalty in the 29th minute. However, Florucz once again brought the Belgian side level just before halftime, netting in the 45th+5 minute. As the match neared its conclusion, David appeared to secure a late advantage for the Unionists in the 88th minute. Yet, another set-piece proved costly, with Bjortuft restoring parity for Bodo/Glimt in the 90th+1 minute. The crucial second leg is scheduled for Tuesday, August 11th, at 18:00, on Bodo’s artificial turf pitch in Norway. The victor of this fiercely contested tie will advance to face the winner of the third preliminary round clash between Greek vice-champions Olympiacos Le Pirée and the Netherlands’ NEC Nimègue, who also played out a 0-0 draw. The team that triumphs in the subsequent playoff will earn a coveted spot in the Champions League league phase, a stage where Belgian champions Club Bruges have already secured their place.

Should Union Saint-Gilloise falter in this demanding Champions League third round against the current leaders of the Norwegian championship, their European journey will continue in the Europa League league phase. Historically, the Unionists have faced elimination at this very stage previously, notably in 2022 against Glasgow Rangers and in 2024 at the hands of Slavia Prague.