NORWAY: More than 100,000 supporters gathered in Oslo on Monday to welcome home Norway’s men’s football team, despite its quarter-final exit from the FIFA World Cup.
The celebrations followed Norway’s 2-1 extra-time defeat to England on Saturday, which ended the country’s historic run in the tournament.
How were the players welcomed home?
The squad arrived in Oslo to a traditional water cannon salute before taking part in a homecoming parade through the Norwegian capital.
The players also attended a reception with King Harald before greeting thousands of fans gathered outside the Royal Palace.
Why was Erling Haaland absent from the final celebrations?
Striker Erling Haaland did not participate in the final stage of the celebrations after leaving early to catch a scheduled flight.
Head coach Ståle Solbakken said Haaland and midfielder Sander Berge departed because the team’s return from the United States had been delayed by four hours.
How did the parade unfold?
Large crowds lined the streets of central Oslo, slowing the open-top bus parade as police worked to clear a route through the capital.
The procession was briefly interrupted by low-hanging overhead cables, forcing players on the upper deck to sit down before the bus could continue.
The parade concluded at City Hall Square, where thousands of supporters remained gathered to celebrate the team’s achievements.
What did captain Martin Ødegaard say?
Captain Martin Ødegaard thanked supporters for their backing throughout the tournament.
“The support we have received in the USA and here at home in Norway has been beyond all expectations,” Ødegaard said. “It has been absolutely incredible to see.”
Why is the campaign considered historic?
Although Norway’s World Cup journey ended in the quarter-finals, the team’s performance marked one of the country’s most successful international football campaigns in recent history, prompting nationwide celebrations despite the elimination.