Watch: ‘Viking Row’ fever grips Miami ahead of Norway’s historic World Cup match against England

Viking Row in Miami (Image: X) Miami Beach was painted red ahead of one of the biggest matches of the 2026 World Cup, with thousands of Norway fans turning the city’s iconic Ocean Drive into a Viking-inspired carnival of chants, songs and celebrations ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final against England.The Scandinavian nation has captured the imagination of football fans throughout the tournament and their traveling supporters have ensured that the excitement goes beyond the stadium. The now famous “Viking Row” has become the defining celebration of Norway’s remarkable World Cup race, where fans sit in the streets and move their arms in unison to recreate the image of Viking warriors rowing into battle in longships.The tradition, inspired by Norway’s Nordic heritage, became one of the most viral fan moments of the tournament. Tourists and locals joined in the synchronized celebrations, with Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner even taking part in the festivities on Ocean Drive.Fans also packed bars and restaurants across South Beach and sang chants in honor of star striker Erling Haaland, whose seven goals took Norway into the last eight. Just a few blocks away, England supporters responded with their own rendition of ”Erling Haaland’s coming for you.”

Match preview: Haaland vs Kane in history-packed quarter-final

The quarter-final at the Hard Rock Stadium promises to be one of the highlight matches of the tournament. Norway will be making their first World Cup appearance in 28 years and have already reached uncharted territory by reaching the quarter-finals. A win over England would send them into the semi-finals of the World Cup for the first time in history.Much of Norway’s attacking threat revolves around Erling Haaland, who has scored seven goals in four games and enters the competition having found the net in each of his last 14 competitive appearances for his country. However, Ståle Solbakken is far from a one-man team. Martin Ødegaard directs play from midfield, while Antonio Nusa and Oscar Bobb provide pace and creativity in wide areas.England, meanwhile, arrived full of confidence after beating Mexico 3-2 in a dramatic last-16 clash despite playing a significant part of the match with 10 men. Harry Kane continues to lead the line brilliantly, while Jude Bellingham has emerged as one of the tournament’s best players. Thomas Tuchel’s side will look to use their tournament experience and depth to contain Haaland while exploiting space in transition.