Norway erupted in celebration following their historic 2-1 triumph over Brazil on Sunday. At the royal palace in Oslo, Crown Prince Haakon mingled with thousands of fans seated on the ground, joining the football team’s signature row after securing the nation’s best-ever finish at a World Cup. The team is set to face England in the quarter-finals this Saturday.
More than 100,000 supporters are believed to have filled the streets of the capital, while many others participated in vibrant festivities in various towns and cities throughout the country. One enthusiastic fan, donning Norwegian colors, was spotted crowd-surfing in an inflatable boat.
Star player Erling Haaland, who netted both goals in the match against Brazil held at New York New Jersey Stadium, perfectly encapsulated the national mood.
“Yes, maybe in Norwegian history.”
he declared to broadcaster NRK. “We must cultivate the same pride in playing for Norway,”
“It was Erling who said it last time, that Norway has changed for ever. Now there will be another week of partying,”
Haaland remarked, emphasizing his hope that all young athletes in Norway will aspire to represent their national team.
The Manchester City forward also expressed his desire for Norway to emulate Brazil’s footballing pride.
Ståle Solbakken, head coach of the national team, voiced concerns regarding the well-being of Norwegians amidst the jubilant celebrations.
“Then there will be a Saturday game. So I fear for people’s health.”
he shared with NRK. “It doesn’t get any better than this,”
The football fever and Haaland enthusiasm provide a much-needed distraction for both the Norwegian government and the royal family, who have recently faced scrutiny over Crown Princess Mette Marit’s lung transplant, ties to the late Jeffrey Epstein, and her son Marius Borg Høiby’s recent rape conviction.
Karl-Petter Løken, secretary general of the Norwegian football association, expressed his excitement over the victory.
“It is incredible for all of Norway and for everyone who loves Norwegian football.”
he stated. “There are matches, there are wins – and there are also monuments.”
The team’s remarkable performance has garnered admiration, even from neighboring rival Sweden, following their elimination by France last week. A commentator in the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet remarked,
“raised a new Norwegian national monument”
He added that the Norwegian team had “raised a new Norwegian national monument.”
