World Cup 2026: Why Erling Haaland is the man no one wants to face as Norway make history
Long before kick-off, thousands of Norway fans had gathered outside the stadium, many wearing Viking helmets, waving giant red flags and singing songs that have become familiar throughout this World Cup.
Naturally there was excitement, but there was also something else; belief. A quiet confidence that this team can compete with anyone.
Despite producing world-class talent, Norway has watched major tournaments from afar for years.
This is only their fourth World Cup match; For the first time since 1998. And the furthest they had gone before this year was finishing in the last 16 twice, 50 years apart, in 1938 and 1998.
They had not won a knockout tie at the World Cup until last Tuesday. They have now won two in a row; the last one against the tournament’s most decorated five-time winning team.
“I told the boys I don’t think it’s 50-50, but if we do our best and win the game we have a fair chance and we did that,” Norwegian coach Solbakken said.
Just in time for the match, Haaland was leading the celebrations by playing the drums as he and his teammates performed the iconic Viking Row with their fans.
“This is just a crazy day,” Haaland said. “One of the craziest days in Norwegian history.”
Warnock said: “He’s extremely emotional and rightly so. He’s playing for one of the best teams in world football from a club perspective.
“But when you play for Norway, they don’t become a big name. Norway is starting to make history for itself and he’s at the forefront of that.”
Solbakken said: “The whole nation is rowing together and with that we are having a great party here in Oslo and in all the big and small cities of Norway.
“Rowing is kind of a symbol of that and of us all being together. So I think being a fan is great days, it’s a great summer, I think being a fan is better than being a coach.”
Rowing captured the World Cup. And now Rooney will have to row on the River Mersey, external After promising to do so if Norway reached the quarter-finals.
