Tens of thousands of fans gathered outside Norway’s Royal Palace to celebrate the national team’s return from their historic FIFA World Cup quarter-finals run. Despite a 2-1 extra-time loss to England, around 90,000 supporters filled the palace square to give the team a warm welcome. The team and fans partook in the famous “Viking Row” celebration, symbolizing Norway’s remarkable tournament journey.
The players, accompanied by the royal family, engaged in handshakes and rowing with the crowd before embarking on a two-hour bus parade through Karl Johans gate. The festivities continued with more rowing at Radhusplassen, extending into the late hours in central Oslo. Norwegian broadcaster NRK reported the overwhelming support both in the US and at home, with player Martin Odegaard expressing gratitude for the unexpected backing.
Norway’s coach, Stale Solbakken, acknowledged the massive reception, stating that even the team was taken aback by the scale of the welcome. Despite missing top scorers Erling Haaland and Sander Berge at the public celebration due to travel commitments, they managed to meet with King Harald before departing for their vacation. Solbakken confirmed that the players adhered to their schedule, engaging in discussions and following through with their planned interactions.
