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SportsNorway beat Brazil 2-1 to reach World Cup quarterfinals for first time; Haaland leads Viking rowing celebration
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Norway defeated Brazil 2-1 in the World Cup Round of 16, advancing to the quarterfinals for the first time in history. After the match, the team celebrated with their iconic 'Viking rowing' ceremony, led by match hero Erling Haaland, who beat a war drum while chanting 'Ro!' (Norwegian for 'Row!') as the team rowed in unison on the grass. The celebration originated from fan Ole Forstad, who developed the idea from a Rosenborg chant, seeking to create something culturally rich with Viking soul. He submitted it to the official fan organization Oljebeger, and the Norwegian Football Association added Viking horns and war drums. The ceremony has become a symbol of unity and collective spirit for the national team, performed across Norway before its World Cup debut.
Source report
Hupu, July 6th — Norway defeated Brazil 2-1 in the World Cup Round of 16, advancing to the quarterfinals for the first time in history. After the match, the team celebrated their victory with their iconic "Viking rowing" ceremony. According to reports from Olé, this celebration originated from the creativity of a Norwegian fan.
The Ceremony
During the ritual, captain Martin Ødegaard, who usually leads the celebration, handed the baton to Erling Haaland, the hero of the match, allowing the goal-scorer to take charge. Haaland stood before a war drum-like instrument, holding a mallet in each hand. He began slowly and calmly, without haste:
- First strike: "Ro!" (Norwegian for "Row!")
- Second strike: Again, "Ro!"
Gradually, the tempo quickened and the intensity grew. The entire team sat on the grass, rowing in unison, with fans in the stands joining in the rhythm. Finally, amid an eruption of cheers, everyone sang together, celebrating this historic victory.
That cry of "Ro" reached its ultimate expression — just as it had in front of the Norwegian Parliament, Times Square, schools, training camps, and across every corner of the country. This collective dance, debuting at the World Cup, had already formed a stunning shockwave.
The Origin: A Fan Named Ole Forstad
It all began with a fan named Ole Forstad, who traveled with Norway to the United States to support the team. Smiling, he said, "Everyone calls me Mr. Ro Ro."
He recounted that years ago, he heard Rosenborg fans split a chant into three syllables, and he took the first one. Speaking to Spain's Marca, he explained:
"I developed this idea, wanting to create something both culturally rich and fun. Now it's more than just a song — it represents unity and a collective spirit."
He also described the spark of inspiration:
"I really hoped Norway, after so many years away, could contribute something great to this tournament. Something with cultural depth, with Viking soul. So I started listening to music, humming possible melodies… After weeks of preparation, recording, and drafts, suddenly — boom! — the idea hit. I submitted it to Oljebeger (Norway's official fan organization), and together with the Norwegian Football Association, they added Viking horns and war drums. The rest is history."
A Historic Moment
An awe-inspiring Norway, with Haaland as conductor. An unforgettable July 5th — a Viking dance now etched into history. Unity, strength, and a cry that has become the identity of the entire national team.
Source: Olé
International Football News
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Meaning: if everyone rows together, no one will slack off on the field. Liked (3) | Reply
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