Norway’s national football team returns to Oslo for a large public welcome after an impressive World Cup run that ended in the quarter-finals. Multiple outlets report that between around 90,000 and more than 100,000 supporters gathered for the celebration Monday, following Norway’s defeat to England. Norway lost 2-1 to England after extra time in the last eight in Miami, ending their tournament run. Despite the exit, the quarter-final finish is presented as the team’s best performance at the World Cup, and it is their first appearance since 1998.
The homecoming includes a parade in the Norwegian capital and a ceremony at the royal palace area, with the crowd packing the square outside the palace. Reports also describe the “Viking Row” performance during the reception. Norway’s crown prince, Haakon, is said to lead parts of the celebration with a drum. Players are quoted praising the support, including captain Martin Ødegaard. Erling Haaland is reported to have traveled back to Norway earlier in the day but did not attend the full reception, with broadcasters citing scheduling constraints. The event is portrayed as a national celebration of the squad’s historic achievement despite their elimination.
