Champions League Upsets and Standout Performances: Bodo/Glimt Stuns Inter, Leverkusen Advances

The UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-offs delivered dramatic results on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, with Norway’s Bodo/Glimt pulling off a stunning victory against Inter Milan, Bayer Leverkusen securing a strong away win and a thrilling draw between Atlético Madrid and Club Brugge. These matches set the stage for the next round of competition, with implications for European football’s elite.

Bodo/Glimt’s Historic Win Over Inter Milan

In a remarkable upset, Bodo/Glimt defeated Inter Milan 3-1 in the first leg of their knockout phase play-off tie. The Norwegian champions, who have won the league four of the last six years, demonstrated their European prowess with a dominant performance against last season’s Champions League runners-up [1].

Sondre Brunstad Fet opened the scoring for Bodo/Glimt in the 20th minute. Despite a Francesco Pio Esposito equalizer for Inter – a goal that stood after a VAR review for a potential handball – Bodo/Glimt regained the lead through Jens Petter Hauge just after the hour mark. Kasper Hogh then extended their advantage three minutes later, securing a 3-1 victory [1].

Inter Milan will now face a significant challenge to overcome the two-goal deficit in the return leg at San Siro next Tuesday [1].

Leverkusen’s Away Victory Against Olympiacos

Bayer Leverkusen took a significant step towards reaching the last 16 with a 2-0 victory over Olympiacos in Greece [1]. Patrik Schick proved to be the hero for Leverkusen, scoring a brace in just three minutes – first with his left foot in the 60th minute and then with a header from a corner in the 63rd minute [1].

Atlético Madrid and Club Brugge Share Thrilling Draw

In a high-scoring encounter, Atlético Madrid and Club Brugge played out a 3-3 draw. Ademola Lookman scored for Atlético Madrid, extending their lead before halftime, assisted by Julian Alvarez and Antoine Griezmann [1]. However, Atlético’s defense appeared vulnerable, and the team struggled to maintain control throughout the match [1].

Looking Ahead

The winners of the Bodo/Glimt vs. Inter Milan and Atlético Madrid vs. Club Brugge ties will advance to the last 16, where they will face either Manchester City or Sporting of Portugal next month [1]. These results highlight the increasing competitiveness of European football and the potential for upsets in the Champions League.