You might have noticed something buzzing around. Or maybe you haven’t thought twice about it. Either way, it’s worth considering.
No matter where you look—be it social media, Times Square, or during a Mets game—the infectious “Viking Row” chants from Norway can’t be missed as they make a significant push in this World Cup.
With their passionate support, energetic chants, and an impressive offensive lineup, Norway has become one of the standout stories of this World Cup, especially as they prepare for a quarter-final clash with England.
At the heart of it all is Erling Haaland, who has really shone in this tournament, netting seven goals over four matches.
Not only is he making waves on the pitch, but he’s also enjoying his time in the U.S., where the Norwegian team seems to be making quite an impression.
“I like Americans,” Haaland shared with reporters before a practice session in Florida. “They can be light-hearted and funny, and I appreciate that about them.”
“Everything about the World Cup has been fantastic so far—the games, the stadium, and even our practice facilities. I’m just really happy and excited.”
His playful nature has also taken social media by storm, with Haaland posting humorous photos using goofy Snapchat filters, including one where he wore a shirt that said, “Guys, you can kiss my Dallas.”
After a 2-1 triumph against Ivory Coast in the round of 32, he visited Wild Bill’s Western Store in Dallas, purchasing four Stetson hats and a pair of snakeskin boots.
“Hello!” he greeted as he walked into the shop. “Dallas is awesome. I’m definitely coming back. The people here are so positive and seem to really enjoy life.”
Besides having fun, Haaland features in a YouTube documentary series linked to a new Christopher Nolan film, The Odyssey. The series shows him picking out a cowboy hat and attending a Carolina Hurricanes game.
All entertainment aside, Haaland is not just a player; he’s essentially the heartbeat of the Norwegian team, largely due to his vast European experience.
He started his competitive career at 15 with Brine FK, a team in Norway’s second division. The following year, he joined Molde FK, where he was coached by famed striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Under Solskjaer’s guidance, he improved his heading and became a key player, leading the team with 12 goals in 2017.
In 2019, he continued his upward trajectory after moving to Red Bull Salzburg, where he marked his tenure with three hat-tricks, gaining recognition as an attacking prodigy.
Before entering the Premier League, he played for Borussia Dortmund in the German Bundesliga, where he scored 86 goals in 89 appearances. His last season at Dortmund was just a springboard to further success with Manchester City, where he tallied an impressive 112 goals over four seasons, also snagging the Golden Boot three times.
Despite these numerous accolades, his connection to the Norwegian national team is what truly defines him.
This World Cup brings fresh significance, especially since Norway didn’t qualify for the 2022 tournament, but with Haaland’s performance, the country is back in the spotlight.
Catch him either at a cowboy-themed store in Dallas or on the field; one thing is clear: Haaland is making his mark on America.
