World Cup dream ends but party goes on as proud Norwegians salute historic run

Despite the sting of a 2-1 quarter-final loss to England after extra time, thousands of Norwegian fans transformed their final World Cup night into a jubilant celebration. Pouring onto the streets of Oslo in the early hours of Sunday, supporters clad in the national colors marched toward the Royal Palace for one last "Viking row," a thunderous ritual that had captivated fans throughout the tournament.

“

We are proud of them. Thanks for the great memories.

The team's journey to the quarterfinals, a feat never before achieved by Norway in the World Cup, has ignited national pride and fueled ambitious hopes for the future. "We are proud of them. Thanks for the great memories," one fan told public broadcaster NRK, joining the crowds to celebrate a run that would have seemed unlikely just four years ago.

The atmosphere in Oslo was electric, with chants of "We are gonna win the Euros in two years" echoing through the night. Norwegian brown cheese was shared among fans as the national anthem played, flares lit the sky, and fireworks crackled over tens of thousands filling the main thoroughfare. "It's national pride, we are celebrating something we did together," another supporter said.

“

It's national pride, we are celebrating something we did together.

"It has been an amazing journey. The Viking row has gone around the world and we have done everything and more than we could dream of," another fan reflected. The team's performance has left supporters dreaming big, with the "Viking row" becoming a global symbol of their passionate support.

“

It has been an amazing journey. The Viking row has gone around the world and we have done everything and more than we could dream of.