Oslo Celebrates Norway’s National Soccer Team Despite World Cup Exit
On Monday, more than 100,000 fans filled the streets of Norway’s capital, Oslo, to welcome their soccer team back home, despite their World Cup exit. Norway’s historic run ended with a 2-1 extra-time defeat by England in the quarter-finals. Yet, the loss transformed into a national celebration.
Under the Norwegian summer sun, a massive crowd gathered at the Royal Palace. An unofficial estimate reported over 100,000 people attended. The Norway national football team landed to a warm welcome, with a traditional water cannon salute marking their arrival before their homecoming parade commenced in Oslo.
Supporters packed the palace square swiftly, extending along Karl Johans gate, as the team met with King Harald. “I have felt very proud,” Norway fan Catherine Breiland told Reuters. “The atmosphere between the Norwegian people has been unbelievable.”
The team greeted fans with the Royal Guard at attention. Striker Erling Haaland missed the final stage of celebrations after leaving early. His absence was noted during the “Viking row” led by Crown Prince Haakon, with tens of thousands of fans present.
Coach Stale Solbakken explained, “Erling and Sander had to catch their plane as our trip from the U.S. was delayed.” The squad continued the celebrations with an open-top bus parade through Oslo.
Crowds halted the bus in central Oslo at one point, forcing it to reverse while police escorts struggled to create a path. The players celebrated with beer and waved to the crowd, with the festivities lasting into the night.
Nicolai Sivesind, who traveled to participate in the events, expressed his admiration. “The run the Norwegian team has had this year has been way beyond anything I’ve ever expected. Everybody in Norway should honor the national team.”
An amusing moment occurred when low-hanging overhead cables stopped the parade. The players had to sit down to clear the obstruction, causing a brief delay.
“The support we have received in the USA and here at home in Norway has been beyond all expectations. It has been absolutely incredible,” captain Martin Odegaard told Norwegian broadcaster NRK.
The parade, spanning 1.3 kilometers, concluded at City Hall Square. Thousands of patient supporters were there to cheer for the team.