'We are favourites to reach the semi-finals'- Mourinho insists Roma will qualify despite Bodo Glimt defeat

Roma coach Jose Mourinho is not worried over his side's chances of qualifying for the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa Conference League. 

The Italian side suffered a 2-1 defeat in the first leg of their quarterfinal encounter against Bodo Glimt at the Aspmyra Stadion on Thursday night. 

Roma looked to be heading for a victory when Lorenzo Pellegrini put them in front two minutes before the break. 

But a goal from Ulrik Saltnes in the 56th-minute restored parity for the home side before a strike from Hugo Vetlesen two minutes from time completed a dramatic win for Kjetil Knutsen's men. 

It's the second time the Norwegian side would beat Roma this season, with Mourinho's men still winless in the three matches they have played against them. 

Still, the 59-year-old Portuguese tactician is confident that Roma will turn the tie around at the Stadio Olimpico next Thursday. 

"We've lost 2-1 tonight, but we still have a second leg to play," Mourinho said after the game. 

"A second leg that will be at the Stadio Olimpico, in front of our fans. 

"So I don't have any problem in saying that I still feel we are favourites to reach the semi-finals."

The ex-Real Madrid coach also expressed his faith in his players' ability to qualify for the semi-final with a win on Thursday. 

"Of course. Total confidence in my players, confidence in the atmosphere at the stadium, confidence in the support our fans will show. 

"Obviously, we are going up against a tough side," he added. 

Roma will need to win by two clear goals to progress to the semi-finals.