Oslo’s Erling Haaland receives Google tribute ahead of Norway’s World Cup quarter-final

By Rohan Gupta — 10 July 2026 — 4 min read

Norway’s journey in the FIFA World Cup has extended beyond the football pitch into the digital realm, with Google joining the viral ‘Viking Row’ celebration. This comes as superstar Erling Haaland encouraged fans to search his name online, leading to a unique interactive experience.

Ahead of Norway’s quarter-final match against England, Haaland posted a message on X, stating, “One thing to do today… search my name on Google.” Fans who followed this suggestion were met with a hidden Google animation honouring Norway’s ‘Viking Row’ tradition, which has become a notable aspect of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Google’s ‘Viking Row’ Tribute

Searching for Haaland’s name on Google activates a party-popper icon. Clicking this icon reveals animated Viking-themed characters, adorned with horned helmets and Norwegian flags, rowing in unison. The animation is accompanied by a drumbeat and the chant of “Ro!” Repeated clicks generate more animated supporters, replicating the synchronised celebration that has been seen in stadiums and on social media throughout Norway’s campaign.

The ‘Viking Row’ involves thousands of supporters mimicking the rowing of a Viking longboat after victories. Haaland, along with captain Martin Ødegaard and other members of the Norwegian squad, frequently participate in this post-match ritual with fans. This celebration has quickly become one of the tournament’s most recognisable traditions, prompting Google to create its interactive tribute.

The concept for the “Ro!” (Row!) chant was developed by Ole Froystad, an elementary school teacher from Norway, who presented it to the national supporter group, Oljeberget. The celebration was first performed in Oslo during a friendly match against Switzerland in March, where it received a varied initial response. The group also recorded an official anthem titled “Viking Blood,” which incorporates the row rhythm.

Froystad explained that the rowing symbolises the Vikings preparing for battle, bringing in their sails, and rowing ashore. He noted that the celebration is for the team, emphasising the need for rowers and cheering, regardless of the match outcome. He also highlighted how the celebration fosters unity among people, exceeding his initial expectations.

Haaland’s Influence Beyond the Pitch

Google’s tribute underscores Haaland’s increasing influence beyond football. Earlier in the week, the Manchester City striker surprised fans by reviving his rap career, releasing a remix of his 2016 song “Kygo jo” with Norwegian DJ Kygo.

Before becoming a prominent striker in world football, Haaland was part of a rap trio called Flow Kingz with youth teammates Erik Botheim and Erik Tobias Sandberg while playing for Bryne in Norway. The original track has seen a resurgence during Norway’s World Cup campaign, leading Kygo to release a remix after Haaland’s two goals contributed to a 2-1 victory over Brazil in the Round of 16. Haaland shared the remix on Instagram, humorously asking if it made him an official artist.

Haaland has been a standout player in the tournament, scoring seven goals, placing him one goal behind Argentina captain Lionel Messi and France’s Kylian Mbappé in the Golden Boot race. His goal tally also matches the most goals scored by a player in their debut World Cup since Poland’s Grzegorz Lato achieved seven goals in 1974.

Norway’s victory over five-time champions Brazil secured the nation’s first-ever World Cup quarter-final appearance. They are set to face England in Miami. As anticipation builds for this match, Haaland has ensured Norway remains a prominent topic both on and off the field.

Preparation for the England Clash

Norway is preparing for its 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final match against England. The team recently recovered from a squad-wide illness, which was described as a collection of mild, flu-like symptoms, colds, and minor fevers. Team doctors have confirmed that all players are healthy.

Norway team doctor Ola Sand stated that all players are now healthy, noting the minimal fuss despite being together for almost six weeks. He expressed confidence in the team’s control over the situation. The upcoming quarter-final fixture may also face challenging weather conditions, with reports indicating potential extreme heat and localised lightning strikes. Temperatures could reach 33°C to 34°C, with a “Real Feel” temperature on the pitch possibly hovering between 43°C and 44°C due due to intense humidity levels of 60 per cent to 68 per cent.

After Norway’s 2-0 win against Brazil in the Round of 16, Haaland took over drum-pounding duties from his teammate Martin Ødegaard to lead the entire Norwegian fanbase in the ‘Viking Row’ with drum beats.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Rohan Gupta

Sports Reporter