Olympiacos vs Bodø/Glimt: José Luis Mendilibar’s Starting XI Thoughts

The much-anticipated Europa League match between Olympiacos and Bodø/Glimt will take place at Aspmyra Stadion in Norway (22:00, Ant1, Cosmote Sport 3). The Piraeus team aims for victory to secure the first step toward qualification for the Europa League play-offs. Bodø/Glimt is a formidable opponent on home turf, boasting seven wins and one loss in eight European games at their stadium. Despite challenging weather conditions and several absences, Olympiacos coach José Luis Mendilibar is determined to lead his team to success. Playing on artificial turf adds complexity, but Olympiacos remains unfazed by obstacles. If they overcome Bodø/Glimt, their next challenge will be against the winner of Lazio-Viktoria Plzeň. Mendilibar has brought 20 players, leaving injured stars Agoump El Kaboui, André Orta, and Dani García behind. Possible lineup includes Tzolakis in goal, Costinia and Ortega on defense flanks, Biankon and Carmo centrally. Essé will partner with Muzakitis in midfield, while Chicíonio plays as the attacking midfielder. Up front, Jaremtchuk replaces El Kaboui, though Kostoulas could also feature. Tactical flexibility might see Rodinê shifted to right-back, with Palma or Velde filling his wing role. Olympiacos’ full squad comprises Anagnostopoulos, Biankon, Tzolakis, Carmo, Stamenece, Tsikínio, Kostoulas, Martíns, Essé, Muzakitis, Ortega, Paschalakis, Pierola, Costinia, Rodinê, Palma, Jaremtchuk, Bruno, and Rétsos.