The UEFA Europa League quarterfinals are here, and with them comes one burning question: Can the underdogs actually triumph against Europe’s elite? As the 2024/2025 season enters its most exciting phase yet, fans and pundits alike are debating the chances of lesser-fancied sides like Bodø/Glimt, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Rangers pulling off sensational upsets against footballing heavyweights such as Manchester United, Tottenham, and Lazio.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the current quarterfinal fixtures, analyze real-world data, assess the chances of the underdogs, and highlight key factors that could lead to a historic Europa League upset.
Current Quarterfinal Fixtures
The UEFA Europa League quarterfinals for the 2024/2025 campaign feature an intriguing blend of football royalty and fearless challengers:
- Tottenham Hotspur vs. Eintracht Frankfurt
- Bodø/Glimt vs. Lazio
- Rangers vs. Athletic Club
- Lyon vs. Manchester United
Each tie offers a unique storyline, but the spotlight is firmly on whether the so-called “smaller” clubs can turn the tables and reach the semifinals. Let’s take a closer look at the underdogs and their roads to the last eight.
1. Bodø/Glimt: Norway’s Giant Killers
Bodø/Glimt have been Europe’s feel-good story for the past few seasons. The Norwegian champions stormed through their domestic league and continued their momentum in Europe. In the Round of 16, they shocked Dutch side FC Twente with a commanding 5-2 aggregate win.
Statistically, Bodø/Glimt stand out for their attacking output, and while their defensive unit has been tested, goalkeeper Nikita Haikin leads the competition with 50 saves—an impressive indicator of their last-line resilience.
Facing Lazio, a team with years of European experience, will be their toughest challenge yet. However, the Norwegians’ pressing style and fearless mentality mean they’re more than just passengers in this fixture.
2. Eintracht Frankfurt: The Bundesliga Dark Horse
Don’t sleep on Eintracht Frankfurt. The German outfit may not have the flashiest squad, but what they lack in star power, they make up for in tactical discipline and heart.
Their biggest statement came in the Round of 16, where they overturned a first-leg deficit against Ajax with a stunning 4-1 win in the second leg. Their ability to bounce back under pressure shows a team with a strong spine and adaptability.
Tottenham, on the other hand, have struggled with inconsistency, especially in knockout formats. With Frankfurt’s knack for big European nights, this tie could easily swing in favor of the underdogs if Spurs underestimate their visitors.
3. Rangers: Masters of Mental Grit
Rangers have become synonymous with drama and determination. Their thrilling penalty shootout win over Fenerbahce in the previous round highlighted the team’s psychological strength and never-say-die attitude.
They now face Athletic Club, who are tactically sound and well-organized. However, Rangers’ passionate style, coupled with their home advantage at Ibrox, could prove crucial. If they can hold their nerve and maintain defensive discipline, this could be another huge scalp in their European adventure.
4. Lyon vs. Manchester United: Is an Upset Brewing?
Lyon have flown under the radar this season, but they’ve quietly built a solid unit. They boast talented youngsters and experienced leaders, and their aggressive, fast-paced style could cause problems for a sometimes-vulnerable Manchester United defense.
While United are favorites, they’ve shown vulnerability in transition and have occasionally struggled to break down compact teams. If Lyon can keep things tight at the back and capitalize on quick breaks, there’s every chance they could deliver a major shock.
5. Numbers Don’t Lie: What the Stats Say
The 2024/2025 UEFA Europa League has seen 515 goals so far, averaging 2.95 per game—proof of just how open and attacking the tournament has become.
Key statistics include:
- Top goalkeeper (saves): Nikita Haikin (Bodø/Glimt) – 50 saves
- Most ball recoveries: Dweh (Viktoria Plzeň) – 96 recoveries
- Most goals in a single leg: Frankfurt vs Ajax – 4-1 (Second Leg)
These numbers show how the competition isn’t being dominated by traditional elites. Instead, performance metrics show that teams like Bodø/Glimt and Frankfurt are holding their own and, in some cases, outperforming the big names.
What Would It Take for the Underdogs to Triumph?
For these teams to make it to the semifinals (and potentially beyond), a few key factors must align:
Tactical Flexibility
Underdogs must exploit weaknesses in their opponents. This means adapting formations mid-game, utilizing set-pieces, and pressing at the right moments.
Depth & Fitness
Managing squad rotation while keeping star players fresh is essential. Europa League matches often follow grueling domestic schedules, so intelligent player management can be a game-changer.
Mental Resilience
Momentum is everything. The ability to bounce back from setbacks, remain composed under pressure, and maintain belief can make all the difference at this stage.
A Brief Look at Past Upsets
Underdogs have a proud tradition in the UEFA Europa League. From Eintracht Frankfurt’s triumph in 2022 to Villarreal’s fairytale run in 2021, history shows that anything can happen when the stakes are high.
Football isn’t scripted. That’s what makes the Europa League so special. On any given night, passion, effort, and a bit of magic can rewrite expectations.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 UEFA Europa League quarterfinals promise drama, goals, and—if the underdogs have their way—upsets that will echo through the football world.
As fans, we often romanticize the idea of David beating Goliath. This year’s quarterfinal lineup offers real, tangible opportunities for that to happen.
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Will Bodø/Glimt stun Lazio? Can Rangers overwhelm Athletic Club? Will Eintracht Frankfurt tame Tottenham? The answers will soon unfold, but one thing’s certain: these underdogs aren’t here just to participate—they’re here to make history.
