Norway welcome Erling Haaland and squad home after historic World Cup
Erling Haaland and the Norway national team have been welcomed home by tens of thousands of supporters in Oslo following their historic run to the World Cup quarterfinals.
The Scandinavian nation reached the last eight of the tournament for the first time in their history.
They secured a famous victory over five-time champions Brazil in the round of 16 before suffering extra-time elimination against England.
The squad was escorted back to the Norwegian capital by military jets ahead of a royal reception.
Royal reception and Viking Row
Leading members of the country’s royal household joined ecstatic fans for the team’s now-customary ‘Viking Row’ celebration.
Crown Prince Haakon led the festivities by banging on a drum to replicate the post-match rituals of captain Martin Odegaard.
An open-top bus parade allowed the players and public to share a moment of mutual appreciation for a memorable summer.
The prolific striker drew laughter upon disembarking the plane by carrying what appeared to be a taxidermied raccoon holding an empty bottle.
Superstar status secured in North America
The formidable forward saw his global profile rise even further during his nation’s first appearance at the finals in 28 years.
He registered an impressive seven goals across the campaign to cement his status as a superstar on the international stage.
Norway were ultimately denied a semi-final clash with Argentina after Jude Bellingham scored a decisive goal for the Three Lions in Miami.
The narrow defeat left some feeling aggrieved regarding the officiating during the tense knockout tie.
Norway were ‘robbed’ vs England at World Cup. Well done referee.
Alf-Inge Haaland