World Cup: Norway’s Erling Haaland joins fans in ‘viral’ Viking Row, send stadium into frenzy – Watch

Norwegian players perform the rowing ritual during the World Cup Group I soccer match between Norway and Senegal in East Rutherford, N.J., near New York, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo) Norway booked their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after beating Senegal 3-2 in New Jersey on Monday. After the win, the players joined the fans in the traditional “Viking Row” celebration led by captain Martin Ødegaard.Viking Row has become a popular tradition among Norwegian fans during the tournament. Sitting in a formation resembling a Viking longboat, fans mimic rowing movements to the beat of a drum, drawing comparisons to Iceland’s famous ‘Viking Clap’ from Euro 2016.Norwegian supporters chanted during both World Cup matches and in the host cities of Boston and New York. After Monday’s win, the players and coaches joined in the celebration with the fans.Match-winner Erling Haaland said he would like to take part in the ritual if Norway secure victory.“I saw it online; it went completely viral,” Haaland told Fox Sports. “Martin (Ødegaard) asked me before the game: ‘Do you think we should join?’ I said, ‘If we win, let’s do it, why not?'”After the final whistle, Haaland, his teammates and coach Ståle Solbakken walked over to the Norwegian supporters, sat in formation and joined the Viking Row celebration.Haaland scored twice in the match, taking his tally to four goals in the tournament. He remains in contention for the Golden Boot alongside the likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane.Captain Ødegaard set the pace during the celebrations by beating a drum as players and fans joined together in post-match scenes.Viking Row symbolizes unity, strength and teamwork. Inspired by the image of Vikings rowing together before battle, fans perform the gesture in unison to show support for the national team.On the pitch, 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 ahead and help secure qualification for the knockout rounds.The result guarantees Norway at least second place in Group I. Their final group stage match on Friday against the French national soccer team in Foxborough, Massachusetts, will decide who places in the group.