OSLO: Norway’s memorable FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign may have ended in the quarter-finals, but the national team received a hero’s welcome upon returning home to Oslo on Monday.

According to Reuters, more than 100,000 supporters lined the streets of the Norwegian capital to celebrate the players, despite their 2–1 extra-time defeat to England in the quarter-finals.

The team was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute upon arrival before taking part in an open-top bus parade through the city. Thousands of fans gathered around the Royal Palace and along Karl Johans gate to cheer the players.

The squad first met King Harald before greeting supporters from the palace steps. Crown Prince Haakon joined the celebrations by leading the team’s traditional chant.

Star striker Erling Haaland and midfielder Sander Berge were unable to attend the ceremony as they had to catch connecting flights. Head coach Ståle Solbakken said the team’s flight from the United States was delayed by four hours, leaving the two players with little time before their onward journeys.

Captain Martin Ødegaard thanked the fans for their incredible support throughout the tournament, describing the reception as unforgettable.

The victory parade experienced minor delays due to the massive crowds, with police briefly clearing the route to allow the bus to continue. At one point, players on the upper deck had to sit down while passing beneath overhead power and communication lines.

Despite the brief interruptions, the parade reached City Hall Square, where tens of thousands of supporters were waiting to celebrate Norway’s historic World Cup campaign, reflecting the nation’s pride in a team that exceeded expectations on football’s biggest stage. (Reuters/ANI)