On April 17, 2025, the Stadio Olimpico in Rome will be buzzing with anticipation as Lazio prepares to host Bodo/Glimt in the return leg of the Europa League quarter-finals. With the match set to kick off at 21:00 CEST, the stakes couldn't be higher for the home side, who find themselves in a challenging position after losing the first leg 2-0 in Norway.
The pressure is on Lazio to deliver a remarkable performance, as they aim to overturn the deficit and secure a spot in the semifinals for the first time in 22 years. The last time they reached this stage in continental competition was during the UEFA Cup under the management of Roberto Mancini, when they were propelled by the goals of stars like Claudio Lopez, Simone Inzaghi, and Bernardo Corradi.
For Lazio, the task at hand is monumental. After a disappointing outing in the first leg, where they struggled against the icy conditions and a formidable Bodo/Glimt side, the team is determined to rise to the occasion. "We can only rely on ourselves and our fans to turn this situation around and continue dreaming of the trophy," said coach Marco Baroni, emphasizing the importance of home support.
Despite the setback in Norway, Lazio has shown resilience throughout the Europa League season, having dominated the group stage and consistently remained at the top of their game. However, injuries have plagued their campaign, and the team must now dig deep to find the strength needed for this crucial encounter.
In the first leg, the weather and pitch conditions were less than favorable for Lazio, who faced a Bodo/Glimt team that was firing on all cylinders. The Norwegian side capitalized on their home advantage, and with the scoreline reading 2-0, Lazio faces an uphill battle. A three-goal margin is needed to advance directly, while a two-goal victory would send the match into extra time.
Historically, Lazio has struggled when entering a two-legged tie after losing the first match. They have been eliminated in 12 of 15 previous occasions after such a setback, making the odds against them. However, the team is unbeaten in their last 13 home matches in the Europa League, which could provide a glimmer of hope as they look to leverage their home ground advantage.
Bodo/Glimt, on the other hand, is riding high after their first-leg victory and is aiming to make history by becoming the first Norwegian team to reach the semifinals of a European competition. Coach Kjetil Knutsen has instilled a sense of confidence in his players, who are aware of the significance of this match.
“We are excited about the opportunity to represent Norway on such a big stage,” Knutsen remarked, highlighting the potential for his team to achieve something unprecedented. Bodo/Glimt has a strong record this season, especially at home, but their away performances have been less impressive, with only one victory in six attempts on Italian soil.
The match officials for this high-stakes encounter will be led by German referee Daniel Siebert, who is no stranger to pressure situations. This will be his second Europa League match of the season, and he will be supported by a full German officiating team, including assistants Jan Siedel and Rafael Foltym.
As for the lineups, Lazio is expected to field their strongest squad. Goalkeeper Mandas will be backed by a defensive line featuring Lazzari, Gila, Romagnoli, and Hysaj. In midfield, Guendouzi and Rovella are set to control the tempo, while the attacking trio of Isaksen, Dia, and Zaccagni will support striker Castellanos in their quest for goals.
Bodo/Glimt is likely to stick with the lineup that served them well in the first leg, with Haikin in goal and a solid defense composed of Sjovold, Bjortuft, Gundersen, and Bjorkan. The midfield will see the experienced Berg alongside Evjen and Saltnes, while Hauge, Hogh, and Blomberg will lead the attack.
Fans eager to catch the action will have multiple viewing options. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sport Uno and Sky Sport 252, with streaming available on NOW and Sky Go. Commentary will be provided by Maurizio Compagnoni and Nando Orsi, with additional insights from Matteo Petrucci and Manuele Baiocchini on the sidelines.
With the clock ticking down to kickoff, Lazio is determined to create a memorable night at the Olimpico. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, as the fans rally behind their team in hopes of witnessing a historic comeback. Will Lazio rise to the occasion and reclaim their place among Europe’s elite? Only time will tell.
