90,000 fans welcome Norway's World Cup heroes after historic quarter-final run

Oslo erupted in celebration as an estimated 90,000 fans gathered to honor Norway's national football team upon their return from the FIFA World Cup. The team received a hero's welcome, celebrating their historic achievement of reaching the quarter-finals, despite their campaign concluding with a narrow 2-1 extra-time loss to England.

The squad's remarkable performance marks their best-ever showing at the FIFA World Cup. Thousands of supporters lined the square outside the Royal Palace in the capital to express their gratitude and admiration for the players. The team further delighted the crowd by performing their now-iconic "Viking Row" celebration, a gesture that has become synonymous with their impressive World Cup journey.

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It’s simply incredible to see all the support we receive and to see how much the country is behind us.

Adding to the festivities, Haakon, Crown Prince of Norway, joined the celebrations, leading the crowd with a drum. The Crown Prince had also traveled to Miami to support the team during their crucial quarter-final match against England. Captain Martin Odegaard conveyed his deep appreciation for the overwhelming reception, describing the fans' support as "simply incredible" and "unforgettable."

While star striker Erling Haaland, who finished the tournament with seven goals, was absent from the official Oslo celebrations due to travel commitments, the team's journey has undeniably captured the nation's imagination. Their run to the last eight has secured its place as Norway's greatest World Cup achievement, celebrated by fans in record numbers.

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It’s really fantastic.