Norway secured 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 performing the traditional “Viking Row” celebration, led by captain Martin Ødegaard.Viking Row has become a popular tradition among Norwegian fans during the tournament. Fans sit in a Viking longboat-like formation and mimic rowing movements to the beat of a drum, drawing comparisons to Iceland’s famous “Viking Clap” from Euro 2016.Norwegian fans performed the chant during both World Cup matches and in the host cities of Boston and New York. After Monday’s win, the players and coaching staff joined in the celebration with the fans.Match winner Erling Haaland said he can’t wait to take part in the ritual if Norway secure victory.“I saw it online; it went completely viral,” Haaland told Fox Sports. “Martin [Ødegaard] he 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 went to the Norwegian fans, sat in formation and joined the Viking Row celebration.Haaland scored twice in the game, taking his tally in the tournament to four goals. He remains in contention for the Golden Boot along with players such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane.Captain Ødegaard set the pace during the celebrations by banging a drum as players and fans mingled in the post-match scenes.The Viking order symbolizes unity, strength and teamwork. Inspired by the image of Vikings rowing together before battle, fans perform the gesture in unison to show their 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 give Norway the lead 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 the French national soccer team in Foxborough, Mass., on Friday will decide who finishes top of the group.
