Norway's World Cup heroes welcomed by 100,000 fans in Oslo despite quarter-final exit

Norway's national football team received a heroes' welcome from over 100,000 fans in Oslo after their World Cup quarter-final exit against England Source: Al Jazeera. Despite the 2-1 extra-time defeat, the country celebrated the team's historic run.

Heroes' welcome

The squad touched down to a water cannon salute and attended an audience with King Harald at the Royal Palace Source: Al Jazeera. Striker Erling Haaland left early to catch a delayed flight, missing the final "Viking row" led by Crown Prince Haakon on drums Source: Al Jazeera.

Celebrations into the night

Fans had already begun celebrating spontaneously after the match, gathering at the Palace square in the early hours of Sunday Source: CNA. Chants of "We are gonna win the Euros in two years" echoed as flares and fireworks lit up the night Source: CNA. Supporters expressed pride and gratitude, with one fan saying, "It's national pride, we are celebrating something we did together" Source: CNA.

The Viking row spirit

The "Viking row" chant, inspired by Norway's seafaring ancestors, became a tournament favorite. Enthusiasts praised the spirit but noted that the rapid rowing technique would exhaust real Viking rowers Source: CNA. The Oseberg Viking Heritage Foundation hopes the World Cup run will boost interest in Viking culture Source: CNA.