Bodo/Glimt vs Man City: Guardiola eyes vital win to secure Top 8 spot after derby heartbreak | OneFootball

Manchester City will look to use Champions League football as a reset when they travel to Norway to face Bodo/Glimt on Tuesday night.

Pep Guardiola’s side arrive at Aspmyra Stadion in need of a response after a disappointing derby defeat at the weekend that extended a worrying run of domestic form.

City have yet to win a Premier League match in 2026 and were beaten 2-0 by Manchester United, a result that has increased scrutiny on their recent performances.

The Champions League offers a different backdrop and, potentially, a welcome change of momentum.

City’s European campaign has been far steadier than their league form, with four wins, one draw and one defeat from six league-phase matches.

That record has left them well placed in the standings, but their position remains far from secure with only two fixtures remaining.

They currently sit just inside the top eight, with several sides close enough to capitalise on any slip.

A win in Norway would go a long way towards shoring up City’s hopes of direct qualification for the last 16.

Bodo/Glimt, by contrast, are still searching for their first Champions League victory.

The Norwegian champions have drawn three and lost three of their six matches and sit near the bottom of the league-phase table.

Progression now looks unlikely, but pride and home advantage remain powerful motivators.

Aspmyra Stadion has long been a difficult destination for visiting sides, particularly those unaccustomed to the conditions above the Arctic Circle.

Bodo/Glimt’s domestic season ended in late November, meaning they come into this fixture with far fresher legs than their opponents.

They have played only friendly matches since the turn of the year, while City have already faced a congested run of competitive fixtures.

That contrast in sharpness could play a role, especially on an artificial surface that demands intensity and precision.

City will, however, take confidence from their away record in the competition, having avoided defeat on the road so far.

Guardiola is also likely to welcome the relative control his side have shown in Europe compared to recent league outings.

Defensive resilience will be key for Bodo/Glimt after conceding freely during their debut Champions League campaign.

They have struggled to contain opponents at this level, but a spirited display could still unsettle a vulnerable City side.

Much will depend on whether City can rediscover their rhythm and authority after a bruising weekend.

If they do, their quality should tell.

If not, Bodo/Glimt’s freshness, home pride and fearlessness could make this a far more awkward assignment than the table suggests.