Bodo/Glimt, a football club with an incredible story, is on the verge of making history by reaching the UEFA Champions League. Leading their charge is key midfielder Hakon Evjen, who carries a special family legacy within the club. His journey, deeply rooted in the team’s spirit, highlights their unique rise from underdogs to national champions and now, contenders on Europe’s biggest stage. As they prepare for a crucial qualifier, the team’s strong unity, clear philosophy, and Evjen’s unwavering dedication are all coming together for this momentous challenge.
⚽ A Legacy Rooted in Bodo/Glimt
Hakon Evjen’s connection to Bodo/Glimt runs deep, thanks to his father, Andreas, who once captained the team and played over 150 games. This family legacy played a big part in Hakon’s own path. “When I was 15 or 16, there were other clubs I could have gone to,” Evjen shared. “But my father played here, had great contacts in Bodo/Glimt, it only made sense to play here.” Now, having already celebrated a Norwegian Eliteserien title with the club, Hakon is eager to help Bodo/Glimt achieve their biggest dream yet: a spot in the Champions League.
✨ The Secret to Unprecedented Success
Based in a town of just 55,000 people, located 200 km above the Arctic Circle, Bodo/Glimt is often seen as an underdog in world football. Yet, over the last seven years, they have transformed dramatically, rising from almost being relegated to winning four national titles in five years. They’ve even beaten European giants on their way to a Europa League semi-final. The secret, according to Evjen, is simple: “Everybody is on the same page; it’s a tightly knit group from players all the way to club management. It’s always about progression, continuous improvement.” He added, “We don’t even think much about the result, but rather about how we play each game.”
🤝 The Coach Behind the Transformation
A major force behind Bodo/Glimt’s success is head coach Kjetil Knudsen. He joined as an assistant in 2017 and took over as head coach a year later. The club showed great faith in him, sticking by him even when they were close to relegation. Knudsen repaid that trust with an amazing run of four championships in five seasons. “Kjetil is a coach who really knows what he wants,” Evjen explained. “He ensures everybody is on the same starting line, everybody knows exactly what they are doing, and that makes it easier for the team to work together.”
🏡 Returning Home for European Glory
Like many of his teammates, Hakon Evjen experienced football outside of Norway. At just 20, he moved to AZ in the Dutch Eredivisie. Although the COVID-19 pandemic affected his time there, he gained valuable experience. “I learned a lot about the culture and the league. Eredivisie develops young talents well, and it’s one of the leagues where you can play with freedom,” he recalled. Ultimately, returning to Bodo/Glimt was an easy decision. “It was a no-brainer for me to come home,” he said quickly. “I really enjoy the football here, exactly like I did when I was younger. The opportunity to play in Europe was a big factor too, and now we will hopefully have the chance to play the Champions League as well.”
🏆 Facing the Ultimate Challenge
Bodo/Glimt’s final obstacle to reaching UEFA’s top competition is Austrian champions Sturm Graz. Evjen knows it won’t be easy. “When I saw the teams we could have been drawn against, I thought Sturm Graz were one of the toughest opponents,” he admitted. He acknowledged their strength, noting, “The fact they beat Salzburg to the title two years in a row says a lot about them.” Despite the challenge, Evjen is ready for the fight. “I think we are the underdog in this tie, actually, and we’ll need to be at our absolute best to be able to make it to the Champions League.” The club’s inspiring journey and Evjen’s leadership are set to be tested in this pivotal match.
