Olympiacos find themselves in a challenging situation as they attempt to overturn a 3-0 first-leg deficit against Bodø/Glimt in their UEFA Europa League (UEL) Round of 16 tie. However, despite the uphill battle, there are several factors that make a home victory for the Greek giants a strong possibility
Olympiacos FC vs Bodo/Glimt – Europa League Play Offs – Match Analysis and Betting Recommendations
Home Fortress – Olympiacos’ Strength at Karaiskakis Stadium
Olympiacos boast an impressive record at home in European competitions, remaining unbeaten in their last six continental matches at Karaiskakis Stadium (W4, D2). This includes emphatic 3-0 victories over Braga and Qarabag in this season’s UEL campaign, demonstrating their ability to secure dominant results on their turf.
Furthermore, their recent 6-0 thrashing of AEK Athens in the Greek Cup further emphasizes their attacking prowess when playing in front of their home fans.
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Recent Form and Resilience
Despite the first-leg loss, Olympiacos have been in strong form overall, winning four of their last five matches across all competitions. Their most recent 1-0 victory against OFI Crete in the Super League showed their ability to grind out results, while their narrow 1-0 win over AEK Athens in the league reinforced their defensive solidity.
Additionally, under head coach José Luis Mendilibar, the team has shown resilience and determination in bouncing back from setbacks, and with their European campaign on the line, they will be highly motivated to produce a strong performance.
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Bodø/Glimt’s Away Struggles
While Bodø/Glimt hold a comfortable aggregate lead, their away form in the Europa League has been less than convincing. They have failed to win any of their last three UEL away matches (D1, L2), including losses to Twente (2-1) and Manchester United, and have historically struggled on Greek soil, with Norwegian clubs losing their last four European away matches in the country.
Moreover, Bodø/Glimt’s 5-2 win over Twente in the playoff round came at home, and their only away result in that tie was a 2-1 defeat. This suggests that while they are a formidable force in Norway, they are far less dominant when playing away from home.
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Olympiacos FC vs Bodo/Glimt – Key Players to Watch
Rodinei (Olympiacos): The Brazilian full-back has been instrumental in recent matches, scoring from the penalty spot at the weekend. He has contributed to seven competitive matches this calendar year with a goal or assist, proving his importance in attacking phases.
Kasper Høgh (Bodø/Glimt): The Danish forward has been in excellent form, scoring five goals in his last three UEL appearances. However, he will face a much tougher challenge away from home against a determined Olympiacos defense.
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Olympiacos FC vs Bodo/Glimt – Conclusion
While Olympiacos face a tough task in overturning the tie, their exceptional home form, strong response to setbacks, and Bodø/Glimt’s struggles on the road suggest that a home win is highly plausible. Even if they ultimately fail to progress, they are well-positioned to at least claim a victory on the night and restore pride in front of their passionate supporters.
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Final Prediction on Olympiacos FC vs Bodo/Glimt game: Olympiacos to Win