GENEVA (AP) — Bodø/Glimt, the remarkable underdog of the Champions League, is on the brink of making a return to the prestigious tournament's main draw. The draw, which will feature 36 teams, is set to take place on Thursday, alongside Europe's elite clubs such as reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich.

Playoff Showdown

This week, the final seven spots in the Champions League will be determined through playoffs. Bodø/Glimt holds a 3-1 advantage as they prepare to host Dutch newcomers NEC Nijmegen at their home ground in the Arctic Circle on Tuesday. The Norwegian side aims to secure their place in the main draw after a remarkable run last season.

Norwegian Rivals

Norway could potentially see two teams advance to the Champions League, as domestic champions Viking are set to face Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday. The teams are currently tied at 2-2 after the first leg, where the Croatian champions squandered an early two-goal lead.

The Champions League draw ceremony will commence at 6 p.m. local time (1600 GMT) in Monaco, coinciding with local team Monaco's preparations for their own playoff match against Gornik Zabrze, where they hold a 3-2 lead from the first leg.

Bodø/Glimt's Journey

Bodø/Glimt's journey in the Champions League has been impressive, having previously defeated top clubs like Manchester City, Atletico Madrid, and Inter Milan. This season, they began their campaign in the qualifying rounds, needing to navigate through two stages in August. So far, they have scored three goals in each of their three matches, including a thrilling aggregate victory over Union Saint-Gilloise, winning 6-5.

Despite a notable departure, with Denmark forward Kasper Høgh sold to Celtic for a reported £11 million ($15 million), the majority of the squad remains intact as they pursue another fairytale run in the Champions League.