In New York City on Monday, Norwegians made a striking impression. Dressed in red, they performed the ‘Viking row,’ a ritual that involves sitting closely as if aboard a ship and mimicking rowing motions together. This spectacle unfolded across various locations such as the subway, Times Square, and 33rd street. They eagerly awaited the train to Norway’s World Cup match. On social media, appearances suggested the entire nation of Norway, with its 5.6 million people, had taken over Manhattan.
Later, around 10 p.m., the Norwegians once again showcased the Viking row in the New York-New Jersey Stadium. This followed Norway’s 3-2 victory over Senegal in the World Cup. Norway’s team also participated, doing their rendition on the field, led by star striker Erling Haaland who scored two goals. Haaland had previously scored twice against Iraq, further showcasing his prowess.
This year marks Norway’s return to the World Cup since 1998, and they’ve secured a spot in the knockout round after two consecutive wins. Haaland is amongst the top contenders for the Golden Boot, awarded to the tournament’s highest scorer. Lionel Messi of Argentina leads with five goals, while Kylian Mbappé of France stands at four. Both scored twice earlier on Monday, but Haaland’s performance kept him competitive.
Erling Haaland of Norway celebrates after scoring his second goal to make it 3-1 in Monday’s World Cup match against Senegal.
Norway’s manager, Ståle Solbakken, expressed his support post-match, stating, “Winning the Golden Boot is simpler playing for France and Argentina. We’re striving to provide Haaland more opportunities and support in upcoming games. He’s performing phenomenally, and we’re thrilled he’s scoring on this significant platform.”
Throughout the match, the 6-foot-5 Haaland was relentless on the field, resembling a determined Viking chasing the ball. In the first half’s stoppage time, he pressured Senegal’s goalkeeper, seized the ball, and attempted a shot at the open net, narrowly missing. Despite this, Norway retained control, and a cross soon found Haaland who made a powerful header, only to be denied by the goalkeeper.
Whenever he missed, Haaland visibly showed his frustration, dropping to his knees and slamming the ground. Manager Solbakken noted, “He missed an open goal. He might have scored four.” Nevertheless, Haaland soon redeemed himself. In the 48th minute, during a fast break, Martin Ødegaard passed to Haaland between two defenders. Haaland, with his first touch, directed a left-footed shot into the net’s upper right corner.
Ashort while later, with Senegal struggling to clear their half, Patrick Berg intercepted the ball and delivered it to Haaland. He volleyed it off the crossbar into the net. Haaland celebrated by engaging with the vibrant crowd.
This was Haaland’s World Cup debut, but he showed an aptitude for making a memorable impact in key moments. In 2019, he scored a hat trick in his first Champions League game, and in 2022, he netted twice during his Premier League debut for Manchester City. Haaland remarked, “Scoring is my forte. I’m fortunate and perhaps naturally talented at scoring goals. It’s just instinct.”
On Friday, Norway will face another formidable challenge against France, also unbeaten with two wins. The victor will top Group I, impacting their positioning for the knockout stage. When asked about the upcoming match, Haaland said, “Getting through to this stage is amazing. I’m not overly concerned about the upcoming game. They may win against us and likely the whole tournament.”
Haaland seemed to provide a grounded perspective. Norway’s World Cup history includes only four appearances, never advancing past the round of 16. As fans departed the stadium, they sang late into the night.
“This is something special for me,” Haaland shared. “Norway is part of something significant. We’re making history, and I am proud to be Norwegian.”
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