Bodø/Glimt’s pragmatic switch thwarts NEC in Nijmegen

Under the bright floodlights of Nijmegen, Bodø/Glimt turned the tables on a nervous NEC, delivering a 1‑3 result that left the Dutch side scrambling for answers. The Norwegian side’s disciplined display proved the very machine that NEC had feared, as the match unfolded with relentless intensity.

Knutsen’s tactical shift in Nijmegen

Kjetil Knutsen showed clear pragmatism, abandoning his usual combination play for a direct long‑ball approach. The change was implemented on the pitch in Nijmegen, where the long ball became the primary weapon against NEC’s pressing.

Having spent many seasons in European (Europees) football with Bodø/Glimt, Knutsen admitted he had never faced an opponent like NEC before. The unfamiliar challenge forced him to adapt his tactics on the spot.

Coach’s admiration for Schreuder’s system

“They defend differently than other teams, also in Nederland. It is man against man and that in an extreme way. For us it is new and difficult to play against. NEC has its own way of playing and that is smart. Many teams seem a bit alike, then it is not easy to find your own way. I think we have found something, we will test it,” Knutsen said, praising Dick Schreuder’s distinctive style.

Het line‑up sheet reveals Knutsen’s solution: he positioned Andreas Helmersen as a towering striker, ready to rise above NEC’s pressure when needed. The tall forward was tasked with holding up play and creating space for his teammates.

Pieter ZwartHoofdredacteurBodø/Glimt described his side as the machine NEC feared, highlighting the 1‑3 scoreline as proof of their effectiveness. The editor’s observation underscored the impact of the tactical overhaul.

The match demonstrated that Bodø/Glimt can swiftly modify its game plan to counter a uniquely disciplined opponent, a lesson that may shape future encounters across Europe.