Norway's World Cup heroes receive rapturous welcome home

Norway's capital city erupted in celebration as an estimated 90,000 fans greeted the national football team upon their return from the World Cup. The team achieved their best-ever result, reaching the quarter-finals before a narrow 2-1 extra-time defeat to England.

Supporters packed the square in front of the royal palace in Oslo to welcome the players. The squad performed their signature "Viking Row" celebration, a gesture that has become a symbol of their successful tournament. Crown Prince Haakon, heir to the throne, led the festivities, even joining in with a drum.

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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.

Captain Martin Odegaard conveyed the team's appreciation for the immense support. "It's simply incredible to see all the support we receive and to see how much the country is behind us," he told public broadcasters NRK. The Arsenal playmaker added, "It's really fantastic."

While star player Erling Haaland missed the main celebration due to travel arrangements, he shared a social media post from his arrival, holding a stuffed raccoon. Haaland was a standout performer, scoring seven goals during the World Cup.

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It’s really fantastic.