Champions League Upsets and Qualification: Inter Stunned, Newcastle and Atlético Advance
The Champions League round of 16 picture is becoming clearer, but not without a major shock. Inter Milan suffered a stunning defeat to Bodo/Glimt, whereas Newcastle United, Atlético Madrid, and Bayer Leverkusen secured their places in the next stage of the competition.
Bodo/Glimt Stuns Inter in Historic Upset
In one of the biggest upsets in Champions League history, Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt eliminated Inter Milan with a 2-1 victory at the San Siro. A costly mistake from Inter goalkeeper Jan Sommer, spilling the ball to former AC Milan player Jens Petter Hauge, proved decisive. CBS Sports reports that Inter had 30 shots in the match, but a low expected goals per shot average of 0.07 highlighted their inefficiency. The absence of midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu may have contributed to their struggles breaking down a disciplined Bodo/Glimt defense.
Bodo/Glimt, who have already defeated Manchester City in this campaign, will face either Manchester City or Sporting CP in the round of 16. Their success is attributed to both manager Kjetil Knutsen’s system and the excellent form of Petter Hauge.
Newcastle and Atlético Cruise Through
Newcastle United completed a dominant victory over Qarabağ FK, winning 3-2 on the night and 9-3 on aggregate. Two early goals from Sandro Tonali and Joelinton sealed their progression. UEFA provides details of the match.
Atlético Madrid similarly advanced, defeating Club Brugge 4-1 (7-4 on aggregate) thanks to a hat-trick from Alexander Sorloth and a crucial goal from American Johnny Cardoso. RTHK confirms Sorloth’s hat-trick propelled Atlético into the last 16.
Cardoso’s goal is particularly significant as he pushes for regular playing time with Atlético and a place in the United States men’s national team squad. He also impressed with five interceptions and a strong overall performance against Brugge.
Bayer Leverkusen Secure Qualification
Bayer Leverkusen drew 0-0 with Olympiacos, securing their passage to the round of 16 with a 2-0 aggregate victory. Malik Tillman missed the match due to an ankle injury but has played a role in Leverkusen’s Champions League success with two goals in eight appearances.
Champions League Results – February 24, 2026
- Atlético Madrid 4, Club Brugge 1 (7-4 Atlético Madrid on aggregate)
- Bayer Leverkusen 0, Olympiacos 0 (2-0 Bayer Leverkusen on aggregate)
- Inter 1, Bodo/Glimt 2 (5-2 Bodo/Glimt on aggregate)
- Newcastle United 3, Qarabag 2 (9-3 Newcastle on aggregate)
Upcoming Champions League Schedule – February 25, 2026 (All times Eastern)
- Atalanta vs. Borussia Dortmund, 12:45 p.m.
- Juventus vs. Galatasaray, 3 p.m.
- PSG vs. Monaco, 3 p.m.
- Real Madrid vs. Benfica, 3 p.m.