Haaland’s Norway receive heroes’ welcome in Oslo after World Cup exit

Oslo erupted in celebration as more than 100,000 fans lined the streets to give the Norwegian World Cup squad a heroes' welcome. The massive turnout transformed the nation's heartbreak over their quarterfinal exit into a jubilant national celebration. Norway's historic run ended with a 2-1 extra-time defeat against England on Saturday, shattering their dreams of reaching the semifinals.

Fans packed the Royal Palace square and stretched down the main street, Karl Johans gate, under the Norwegian summer sun. The team arrived to a traditional water cannon salute before beginning their parade. They were first received in an audience with King Harald before stepping out to greet the adoring crowds, with the Royal Guard standing at attention.

Striker Erling Haaland was notably absent from the final part of the celebrations, having departed early. He missed joining his teammates on the palace steps for a final "Viking row" with fans, which was led by Crown Prince Haakon on the drums. Coach Stale Solbakken explained that Haaland and Sander Berge had to catch their plane due to a four-hour delay in their trip from the US. The squad was set to continue the festivities with an open bus parade around Oslo.

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Erling and Sander [Berge] had to catch their plane as our trip from the US was delayed four hours.