FIFA World Cup 2026: Odegaard leads viral 'Viking Row' celebration as Norway reach knockouts
New Jersey, June 23
Norway captain Martin Odegaard led his team in the traditional Viking Row celebration alongside fans after the side secured qualification for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The emotional celebrations came after Norway confirmed their place in the Round of 32 following a convincing 3-2 win over Senegal.
Following the match, Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, along with his teammates, sat in formation on the ground to perform the traditional Viking Row celebration.
Captain Martin Odegaard set the rhythm by beating the drum, while fans added to the atmosphere, creating a loud and energetic backdrop that echoed across the stadium.
Odegaard, who has been central to Norway's performances in the tournament, was seen leading the iconic post-match ritual as players and supporters came together to celebrate the historic achievement.
The Viking Row is a popular celebration in which fans imitate the synchronised rowing of a traditional Viking ship.
It represents unity, strength, and a collective fighting spirit. Much like the Vikings of history who rowed together before heading into battle, modern Norwegian supporters perform the gesture in unison to express team spirit and back their football side.
Coming to the match, Marcus Holmgren Pedersen put Norway ahead just before halftime, finding the net in the 43rd minute. Haaland then extended the lead with goals in the 48th and 58th minutes to put Norway firmly in control.
Senegal responded through Ismaila Sarr, who pulled one back in the 53rd minute and added another in stoppage time. However, the late surge was not enough to deny Norway all three points.
The win took Norway to six points from two matches, though they remain second in Group I behind France on goal difference.
Haaland, featuring in his maiden FIFA World Cup campaign, has now scored four goals in two matches and continues to be one of the tournament's standout performers.
Senegal, on the other hand, are yet to open their account in the group and will need a victory against Iraq in their final group-stage match to keep their hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds alive.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This Viking Row is so cool! 😍 reminds me of our traditional folk dances back home – we also have those collective celebration moments during festivals like Garba or Bihu. Wish India could ever qualify for the World Cup and have our own unique celebration go viral. For now, have to support Norway! 🇳🇴
Haaland is just unstoppable! 4 goals in 2 matches at his first World Cup – what a beast. But let's not forget Odegaard's leadership, he's the real engine of this team. Norway vs France will be the real test. Also, Senegal's Sarr showed some fight, credit to them for not giving up till the last minute.
As a fan who's followed Norwegian football since the days of Solskjær and Carew, seeing this team finally deliver on the big stage is emotional. The Viking Row is not just a celebration; it's a statement of unity. Makes you think – imagine if our Indian team ever did something like this after a historic win. One can dream! ✨
Love seeing this kind of team spirit! Football is all about these moments. Odegaard's drumming is hilarious though 😂 Also happy for Haaland, he's been carrying City and now Norway on his shoulders. Senegal unlucky, they played well but just couldn't handle the big man.
Slight criticism – the Viking Row is getting a bit overdone now, no? Every Norwegian win and they do this. But
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