Milan: Inter Milan’s Champions League campaign ended in dramatic fashion as the Italian side was eliminated in the playoff round following a 2–1 home defeat to Norwegian club Bodø/Glimt, completing a 5–2 aggregate loss and one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.

The result marked a sharp decline for Inter, who had reached last season’s final but have now failed to make the round of 16 under the competition’s new format. Despite controlling possession and creating far more chances at San Siro, the Serie A leaders struggled to convert opportunities, while Bodø/Glimt capitalised with clinical finishing.

Inter had entered the second leg needing a two-goal margin after losing 3–1 in Norway. The hosts dominated the statistics with a flurry of attempts and superior passing numbers, but were repeatedly denied by resolute defending and an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Nikita Haikin.

The Norwegian side’s progression capped a remarkable European campaign that has already included notable results against several major clubs, underlining their status as the season’s surprise package.

Inter’s exit continues a mixed period in Europe for the club. Although they remain on course for the Serie A title, their continental form has dipped since last year’s run to the final. A slow finish in the league phase left them outside the automatic qualification spots and forced them into the playoff tie that ultimately ended their campaign.

A lack of major squad reinforcements and managerial change in the summer had raised questions about the team’s long-term competitiveness in Europe, and the loss to Bodø/Glimt has intensified scrutiny despite strong domestic form.