Norway’s national football team returned home to an unforgettable reception after making history at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Despite their heartbreaking 2-1 extra-time defeat to England in the quarter-finals, thousands of supporters came together to honour the players for the country’s greatest-ever World Cup performance.
An estimated 90,000 fans filled the square outside the Royal Palace in Oslo, creating an electric atmosphere as they welcomed the team home. The celebration reflected the pride Norwegians felt after watching their team reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time.
Historic Achievement Celebrated Across Norway
Although Norway fell short of reaching the semi-finals, the tournament marked a major milestone for the national team.
Supporters packed the palace square long before the players arrived. As the squad stepped onto the stage, the players and fans performed the now-famous “Viking Row” celebration together. The chant and rowing gesture became one of Norway’s defining moments during the tournament and quickly gained popularity among football fans.
The celebration continued well beyond the palace grounds. According to Norwegian broadcaster NRK, the players first met King Harald V and members of the royal family before greeting thousands of supporters.
Massive Bus Parade Through Oslo
Following the palace ceremony, the team took part in an almost two-hour open-top bus parade along Karl Johans gate, one of Oslo’s busiest streets.
Thousands of fans lined the route, waving Norwegian flags and cheering for the players throughout the journey.
The celebrations then moved to Rådhusplassen, where the squad once again joined supporters for another Viking Row celebration. The festivities continued late into the evening as the team travelled through central Oslo.
Martin Odegaard Thanks the Fans
Norway captain Martin Odegaard admitted that the overwhelming reception exceeded everyone’s expectations.
“I don’t think anyone could have imagined this. The support we’ve received has been beyond all expectations, both in the US and here at home in Norway. It’s been absolutely incredible to see,” Odegaard said.
His comments reflected the gratitude shared by the entire squad after receiving support from Norwegian fans throughout the World Cup.
Coach Stale Solbakken Surprised by the Turnout
Head coach Stale Solbakken also expressed his surprise at the scale of the celebrations.
He revealed that King Harald had prepared the team for what awaited them after landing in Norway.
“The King prepared us for what was coming. We were a little surprised too that it was so huge. Otherwise, there were some healthy football discussions,” Solbakken said.
The coach praised the fans for standing behind the team despite the quarter-final defeat.
Erling Haaland Misses the Celebration
One notable absentee from the public celebration was Erling Haaland.
Norway’s leading goalscorer could not attend the homecoming because he had another flight scheduled to Italy. Even so, fans continued to celebrate his contribution to the team’s historic campaign.
Haaland played a crucial role throughout the tournament and helped Norway reach the last eight for the first time in FIFA World Cup history.
A Tournament That Changed Norwegian Football
Norway’s impressive World Cup journey has generated renewed excitement around football in the country. While the team narrowly missed out on a place in the semi-finals, its performances inspired supporters and created memories that will last for years.
The massive turnout in Oslo showed just how much this squad achieved. For many fans, the team’s fighting spirit and historic run were enough to earn a hero’s welcome regardless of the final result.