FIFA World Cup 2026: Over 100,000 fans welcome Norway team after historic World Cup run
Oslo, July 14
More than 100,000 fans gathered in the Norwegian capital on Monday to welcome home the national football team following its historic FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, despite the side's quarterfinal exit, according to Reuters.
Norway's dream run ended with a 2-1 extra-time defeat to England on Saturday (local time), falling short of a place in the semifinals. However, the team's performance sparked nationwide celebrations as supporters turned out in huge numbers to honour the players.
The squad arrived in Oslo to a traditional water cannon salute before beginning a victory parade through the city.
According to Reuters, Large crowds assembled near the Royal Palace and along Karl Johans gate, Oslo's main thoroughfare, to greet the team. The players also met King Harald during a reception at the Royal Palace before appearing on the palace steps to acknowledge the cheering supporters.
The celebrations concluded with the players joining fans in a traditional "Viking row" chant, led by Crown Prince Haakon on the drums, while the Royal Guard stood at attention behind the squad.
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, however, did not take part in the final stage of the celebrations after leaving the event early. As a result, he missed joining his teammates on the palace steps for the closing ceremony, according to Reuters.
Norway's quarterfinal finish marked one of the country's best-ever performances at the FIFA World Cup, drawing widespread praise and a rousing reception from supporters upon the team's return home.
Earlier, Haaland returned to Norway, sharing a light-hearted post on social media with a unique souvenir.
Sharing a picture of himself, Haaland wrote on X, "It followed me home," referring to the item he carried after Norway's exit from the tournament.
The Norwegian forward, one of the biggest names in world football, was part of the national side's historic run to the World Cup quarterfinals. However, Norway's campaign came to an end at the last-eight stage.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Haaland leaving early is a bit odd. Maybe he had personal reasons or was disappointed with the exit. But imagine the pressure on him as a superstar. However, missing the palace steps moment with King and fans... not great optics. Still, Norway's run was impressive. Shows how a small nation can dream big. Wish Indian football could get similar support.
Beautiful to see a nation celebrate their team's effort, not just results. Quarterfinal exit but they treated it like a victory. That's the spirit! In India, we sometimes focus too much on winning. This is how you build a positive football culture. And Haaland's souvenir thing? He's such a character 😄 Hope Norway keeps rising!
Water cannon salute, royal reception, 1 lakh fans... Norway has truly arrived on world football stage. England match was close too. Haaland leaving early? Maybe he's saving his energy for next season at City. But honestly, as an Indian, I'm jealous of their football infrastructure and fan culture. We need to learn from such nations.
The Viking row chant with Crown Prince on drums sounds epic! Wish our politicians could show such sportsmanship. But I'm concerned about Haaland's early exit. Hope it's nothing serious. Norway should be proud; quarterfinals is a massive achievement for them. In India, we only have cricket mania. Football needs this kind of love.
Norway's reception shows they value the journey, not just the trophy. Meanwhile, in India, we'd be trolling the team if they lost in quarters. That's the difference
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