Hours before the match began, a massive crowd of Norwegian fans had already assembled outside the arena, many wearing Viking headgear, brandishing oversized crimson banners, and belting out chants that have become a signature soundtrack of this tournament.
There was a surge of anticipation, as expected, but also a deeper sentiment—conviction. A steady faith that their side could stand toe-to-toe with any opponent.
For many years, Norway have been spectators at major competitions, even while developing elite-level footballers.
This marks just their fourth World Cup—the first since 1998. Their previous best performance prior to this year consisted of two round-of-16 exits, separated by five decades, in 1938 and 1998.
Before last Tuesday, they had never triumphed in a World Cup knockout match. Now, they have secured two consecutive victories—the most recent against the five-time champions and most successful side in the tournament’s history.
“I told the players I didn’t see it as an even split, but I believed we had a genuine opportunity if we performed at our peak and relied on our difference-makers, and that proved true,” Norway head coach Solbakken remarked.
When the whistle blew, it was Haaland who spearheaded the jubilant scenes, pounding a drum as he and his teammates performed the famous Viking Row with the traveling faithful.
“This is just an absolutely extraordinary day,” Haaland stated. “It ranks among the most extraordinary days in our country’s history.”
Warnock observed: “He is deeply moved, and justifiably so. At the club level, he features for one of the finest sides on the planet.
“But when he represents Norway, they aren’t a traditional powerhouse. This team is carving out its own legacy now, and he stands at the very center of it all.”
Solbakken shared: “The entire country is rowing as one, and by that I mean we are sharing a tremendous celebration right here, in the capital, and in every town and village stretching across Norway.
“The rowing gesture has become a representation of that unity, a sign that we are all connected. These are magnificent days—a brilliant summer to be a supporter. I suspect it’s more enjoyable to be a fan right now than the manager.”
The rowing craze has swept through the World Cup. And now Rooney will have to row across the River Mersey, external after pledging to do so if Norway advanced to the quarter-final stage.
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