Jun 23, 2026, 10:20 IST
Norway booked their place in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after beating Senegal 3-2 in New Jersey on Monday. After the win, the players joined supporters in performing the traditional “Viking Row” celebration, led by captain Martin Ødegaard.The Viking Row has become a popular tradition among Norway fans during the tournament. Supporters sit in a formation resembling a Viking longboat and mimic rowing movements to the beat of a drum, drawing comparisons with Iceland’s famous “Viking Clap” from Euro 2016.Norway supporters have performed the chant during both of their World Cup matches and across host cities Boston and New York City. Following Monday’s victory, players and coaching staff joined in the celebration with fans.Match-winner Erling Haaland said he was eager to take part in the ritual if Norway secured the win.“I saw it online; it’s gone completely viral,” Haaland told Fox Sports. “Martin [Ødegaard] asked me before the game: ‘Do you think we should join in?’ I said, ‘if we win, let’s do it, why not?'”After the final whistle, Haaland, his teammates and coach Ståle Solbakken went over to the Norway supporters, sat down in formation and joined the Viking Row celebration.Haaland scored twice in the match, taking his tally in the tournament to four goals. He remains in contention for the Golden Boot alongside players such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane.Captain Ødegaard set the rhythm during the celebration by beating a drum while players and supporters joined together in the post-match scenes.The Viking Row symbolises unity, strength and teamwork. Inspired by the image of Vikings rowing together before battle, supporters perform the gesture in unison to show support for the national team.On the field, Norway took the lead in the 43rd minute through Marcus Holmgren Pedersen. Haaland then added goals in the 48th and 58th minutes to put Norway in command and help secure qualification for the knockout rounds.The result guarantees Norway at least second place in Group I. Their final group-stage match against France national football team in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Friday will decide who finishes top of the group.
