Norway Reach World Cup Knockout Stage as Haaland and the Viral Viking Row Capture Fans
2026-06-22
Norway secured a place in the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with an entertaining 3-2 victory over Senegal, but it wasn't only the result that had supporters talking.
After the final whistle, Erling Haaland, his teammates, and head coach Ståle Solbakken celebrated with thousands of Norwegian fans by taking part in the now-famous "Viking Row"—a celebration that has quickly become one of the defining images of this year's World Cup.
Norway Book Their Place in the Knockout Stage
The win over Senegal guaranteed Norway a top-two finish in Group I and confirmed their place in the Round of 16.
Haaland once again led the way, scoring twice to bring his tournament tally to four goals. His red-hot form has firmly placed him among the leading contenders for the World Cup Golden Boot alongside Lionel Messi, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappé.
Norway's final group-stage match against France will determine who finishes top of the group, but qualification was already secured with Monday's victory.
The Viking Row Continues to Go Viral
While Haaland's goals have attracted global attention, Norway's celebrations have become just as memorable.
The Viking Row has spread rapidly across social media during the tournament. Inspired by the famous Icelandic "Viking Clap" from Euro 2016, Norwegian supporters sit together as if rowing a traditional Viking longship while moving in rhythm to the beat of a drum.
The celebration has appeared not only inside stadiums but also throughout host cities including Boston and New York, where traveling Norway fans have embraced it wherever they gather.
According to Haaland, even the players couldn't resist joining in.
Haaland: "If We Win, Why Not Join Them?"
Speaking after the match, Haaland revealed that captain Martin Ødegaard had discussed the celebration before kickoff.
"I saw it online—it has gone completely viral," Haaland said.
"Martin asked me before the game, 'Do you think we should join in?' I told him, 'If we win, why not?'"
After securing the victory, the entire squad made their way over to the Norway supporters inside MetLife Stadium.
Players, coaches, and staff sat alongside the fans and joined the synchronized rowing celebration, creating another unforgettable World Cup moment that quickly spread across social media.
Haaland's Incredible Scoring Run Continues
Beyond the celebrations, Haaland's goalscoring form remains extraordinary.
His two goals against Senegal extended an astonishing streak that dates back to October 2024. During that span, he has scored in every competitive appearance for Norway, producing 24 goals across 12 consecutive matches.
The Manchester City striker says representing his country has always been something he enjoys.
"I've loved playing for Norway ever since my debut," Haaland said. "I'm really enjoying every minute of it."
With four goals already at the tournament, he continues to keep pace with the competition's biggest stars in the race for the Golden Boot.
France Can Wait
Despite the excitement surrounding Norway's upcoming clash with France, Haaland wasn't interested in looking too far ahead.
His focus remained on celebrating qualification.
"I'm not thinking too much about France right now," he said. "We're through, and that's what matters."
He added with a smile that France would probably beat Norway—and perhaps even go on to win the entire tournament—but his relaxed comments reflected a team playing with confidence rather than pressure.
Solbakken Keeps the Celebration in Perspective
Although Solbakken happily joined the Viking Row after the final whistle, he was quick to remind everyone that the celebration belongs to the fans.
"It's great fun for the supporters," the Norway coach said.
While admitting he enjoys seeing the atmosphere it creates, Solbakken suggested the rowing tradition is likely to remain a special World Cup moment rather than becoming part of Norway's long-term routine.
"We'll probably stop rowing after the tournament," he joked. "It's a fun World Cup tradition."
Norway Continue to Win Hearts Around the World
Norway arrived at the 2026 World Cup hoping to make an impact after a 28-year absence from football's biggest stage.
They have done much more than simply qualify for the knockout rounds.
Between Haaland's clinical finishing, Ødegaard's leadership, and the unforgettable Viking Row celebrations, Norway have become one of the tournament's most entertaining and widely supported teams.
Whether their World Cup journey continues deep into the knockout rounds or not, they have already created lasting memories—and one of the most recognizable fan traditions of the entire competition.