Norway has advanced to the quarterfinals of the World Cup following a historic victory over Brazil. As the final whistle blew, celebrations erupted – both at the stadium in New Jersey and back home in Norway, where around 100,000 people gathered in central Oslo to celebrate the achievement late into the night.

The decisive moment seemed to come when superstar Erling Braut Haaland, who plays for Manchester City and is one of the world’s top scorers, struck to make it 2–0 in the 90th minute. Earlier, the Norwegian had also scored the opening goal.

The crowd broke out in immediate jubilation and fireworks lit up the sky over the Norwegian capital. But the long stoppage time created fresh tension when Neymar pulled one back to 2–1, giving Brazil one final attack.

Only when the referee blew the final whistle could Norwegian supporters finally relax. In Oslo, where thousands watched the round of 16 on a giant screen, the whistle was met with deafening cheers.

Hours before kick-off, central Oslo was already filled with football fans. Around 20,000 people gathered at City Hall Square to watch the match together. After the win, celebrations continued along Karl Johans Gate and around the Royal Palace. According to Oslo police, about 100,000 people were in the city center during the night.

On the big screens, the Norwegian players could be seen celebrating with their now-famous rowing gesture – a movement quickly mimicked by the crowd on site.

Crown Prince Haakon also joined the celebrations among supporters outside the Royal Palace, taking part in the symbolic rowing gesture. A reporter from Aftenposten described the atmosphere in one phrase: “Wake the king.”

Images from the celebrations showed people climbing lamp posts, traveling through the crowds in inflatable rowing boats, and filling Karl Johans Gate in a sea of red and blue colors. Songs, dancing, and embraces defined the evening, while metro stations filled with cheering fans. Despite the large crowds, the mood was described as good and police presence was extensive.

The victory has also boosted hopes for a long World Cup journey for Norway, with football giants like Argentina, England, France, Portugal, and Spain still in the tournament. Among the celebrating supporters in Oslo, expectations are high after the win over Brazil.

“Incredibly proud”

Daniel Lauritzen, who watched the match with thousands of others in the capital, said the experience was unforgettable.

– It feels completely unreal. I’m not really a big football supporter, but a World Cup brings the whole country together. Today, I am incredibly proud to be Norwegian, he told TT.

It is now also clear that England will be Norway’s opponent in the quarterfinal, after the English side eliminated Mexico earlier on Monday despite playing with ten men for part of the match.

Celebrations in Oslo: