Oslo. Norway’s memorable FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended in the quarter-finals, but the players were given a rousing welcome when the team returned home on Monday.
According to Reuters, more than
a million supporters took to the streets across Oslo to welcome their players.
Norway lost 2-1 to England in the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2018 after losing 2-1 to the semi-finals.
When the team arrived in Oslo, a traditional ‘water cannon salute’ was given.
The parade was then held in the capital, Oslo, on an open bus to welcome him.
Thousands
of supporters gathered around the Royal Palace and at the Carl Johannes Gate, the city’s main street. The players first met King Harald and then greeted the supporters from the steps of the palace.
Prince Haakon led the team’s traditional slogan with drumming. However, star striker Erling Haaland did not attend the event because he had to catch another flight.
The Norwegian national football team’s official X account ‘Fotballandslaget’ also posted a video of the celebration of their return home.
It reflected the pride of the entire nation for a team that had performed beyond expectations on football’s biggest stage.
Explaining the reason for Haaland and midfielder Sander Berge’s absence, head coach Staley Solbaken said: “Our flight back from the United States was delayed by four hours, so Erling and Sander (Berge) had to leave immediately to catch another flight.” Team captain Martin Odegaard expressed his gratitude for the “phenomenal support” of the supporters throughout the World Cup.
The open bus parade in Oslo was delayed for some time due to the large crowds. At one stage, the police had to turn the bus back while clearing the road.
During the trip, the players standing on the upper deck were told to sit for a while due to the power and communication wires hanging over the road, only then the bus could proceed.
Despite some obstacles, the parade reached City Hall Square.
Tens of thousands of fans waited patiently to celebrate in honour of Norway’s historic FIFA World Cup campaign. (ANI)
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