Norway's World Cup victory over Brazil included a royal visit to the locker room, where Princess Ingrid Alexandra, the nation's future queen, celebrated with the team. She was accompanied by her brother, Prince Sverre Magnus.
In a viral video, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, who is second in line to the Norwegian throne, was seen hugging striker Erling Haaland after his two goals secured the win against the five-time World Cup champions. Haaland also shook the princess's hand. Princess Ingrid Alexandra is the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette Marit.
Haaland's brace has propelled Norway to its first World Cup quarterfinal. He has scored seven goals in the tournament, the most by any Norwegian player in World Cup history, surpassing Kjetil Rekdal's previous record of more than one goal. Haaland is averaging a goal every 14 touches, a rate lower than any player who has scored three or more goals in the World Cup over the last 60 years.
The team's success has been met with widespread celebration in Norway. "Everyone has to enjoy themselves. All of Norway has to enjoy themselves. It’s one of the sickest days ever in Norwegian history," Haaland said after the match. The team's manager, Ståle Solbakken, expressed a wish to be among the fans celebrating, noting that the nation's citizens were likely having "the night of a lifetime."
Norway's fan celebrations have also garnered attention in the United States, with the "viking row" chant becoming a fixture in public spaces like Times Square and Citi Field. The team's advance to the quarterfinals ensures these celebrations will continue.