Norway Celebrates Historic FIFA World Cup Journey Despite Quarterfinal Exit

Norway's national football team received a rousing welcome in Oslo after their impressive run in the FIFA World Cup 2026, despite a quarterfinal exit. Over 100,000 fans gathered to honor the players, who were celebrated with a parade and a meeting with King Harald. The festivities included a spirited chant led by Crown Prince Haakon, although star striker Erling Haaland left early and missed the final moments. This quarterfinal finish is hailed as one of Norway's best performances in World Cup history, drawing widespread admiration from supporters.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 14, 2026, 03:24 IST

A Grand Welcome for Norway's Football Team

In Oslo, Norway, over 100,000 enthusiastic fans gathered on Monday to celebrate the national football team's remarkable journey in the FIFA World Cup 2026, despite their exit in the quarterfinals. The team faced a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat against England in extra time on Saturday, which ended their hopes of reaching the semifinals. Nevertheless, their impressive performance ignited nationwide festivities as supporters came out in droves to honor the players.

Upon their arrival in Oslo, the squad was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute, kicking off a victory parade through the city. Throngs of fans lined the streets near the Royal Palace and along Karl Johans gate, Oslo's main street, to welcome the team. The players had the honor of meeting King Harald during a reception at the Royal Palace, where they later appeared on the palace steps to acknowledge the cheers from their supporters.

The celebrations culminated in a spirited 'Viking row' chant, led by Crown Prince Haakon on the drums, with the Royal Guard standing proudly behind the team. However, Manchester City striker Erling Haaland left the event early and missed the final moments of the celebration with his teammates on the palace steps.

Norway's quarterfinal finish is celebrated as one of the nation's best performances in World Cup history, earning them widespread acclaim and a warm welcome upon their return. Earlier, Haaland shared a humorous post on social media, showcasing a unique souvenir he brought back after Norway's tournament exit, captioning it, 'It followed me home.'

It followed me home pic.twitter.com/IwMhgv0CAb

— Erling Haaland (@Erling) July 13, 2026

As one of the most prominent figures in global football, Haaland played a crucial role in Norway's historic World Cup journey, which ultimately concluded at the quarterfinal stage.