Norway's Crown Prince Haakon joined thousands of ecstatic fans in Oslo on Sunday to celebrate the national football team's historic first World Cup victory, a dramatic 2-1 win over Brazil in the quarter-finals.
Historic Triumph Sparks Nationwide Jubilation
The match, played at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, saw Norway secure a stunning upset against the five-time world champions. Goals from Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard in the first half put Norway ahead, with Brazil pulling one back late but unable to find an equalizer.
Crown Prince Haakon, who had traveled to Rio for the match, returned to Oslo and joined fans at a public viewing area in the city center. "This is a moment we will never forget," he told reporters. "The team has made the entire nation proud."
Oslo Streets Overflow with Joy
An estimated 50,000 fans gathered in the city's main squares, waving flags and singing songs late into the night. The celebration was peaceful, with police reporting no major incidents. Many fans wore Viking helmets and painted their faces in red and white, the national colors.
"I've been waiting my whole life for this," said fan Kari Nordmann, 34. "To see Norway beat Brazil in a World Cup quarter-final is beyond my wildest dreams."
Team Returns to Hero's Welcome
The Norwegian squad is expected to arrive in Oslo on Monday, with a parade planned through the city center. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre praised the team's achievement, calling it "the greatest in Norwegian football history."
The victory sets up a semi-final clash against Germany, who defeated Argentina in their quarter-final. Norway will be aiming to become the first Scandinavian nation to win the World Cup.
