Erling Haaland stepped onto the tarmac at Oslo’s Gardermoen Airport on July 13. The Manchester City striker emerged from the aircraft clutching a taxidermied raccoon holding an empty bottle, a strange souvenir picked up in North America. Fans erupted as the unusual keepsake instantly became the star of the homecoming.
Raccoon steals the spotlight
Around 90,000 supporters lined the runway, cheering the World Cup heroes after Norway reached the quarter‑finals for the first time ever. The team’s run included a stunning win over five‑time champions Brazil in the round of 16 before a narrow extra‑time defeat to England. Social media buzzed with chants of "Haaland, Haaland," reflecting the striker's rapid rise to national icon status during the tournament.
The royal household joined the crowd for the traditional “Viking Row”, a chant‑and‑drum display that the squad popularised during the tournament. Crown Prince Haakon led the rhythm on a drum, mirroring the role played by captain Martin Ødegaard and Haaland after each victory. This royal participation underscored the national pride in the team's achievements.
An open‑top bus parade carried the players through Oslo, allowing thousands more to celebrate the historic summer. While the raccoon drew smiles, the focus remained on Haaland’s seven goals, which helped Norway break a 28‑year World Cup absence. This performance marked a significant chapter in Haaland’s career, cementing his place among football's elite.
England’s extra‑time winner by Jude Bellingham in Miami ended Norway’s dream, sending the English side to a semifinal against Argentina on Wednesday. Despite the loss in North America, the Norwegian fans left the airport with a story that will linger far longer than any trophy.
Earlier in the day, the team’s Instagram account posted video of players peering through the plane windows as Norwegian military jets escorted the aircraft. The footage captured the anticipation building before the royal welcome, showcasing the scale of the event awaiting the squad.
Social media lit up with reactions, many users sharing surprise at the raccoon and expressing pride in Norway’s performance. Haaland’s seven‑goal tally placed him among the tournament’s leading scorers, underscoring his rise to global superstardom and turning the team's journey into a landmark moment for the country's football history.
Frequently asked questions
Why did Erling Haaland bring a taxidermied raccoon to Oslo?
He picked up the taxidermied raccoon as a quirky souvenir from North America, and it became a memorable prop that captured fans' attention during his homecoming.
How many fans greeted Haaland at Oslo Airport?
Around 90,000 supporters lined the runway to cheer Haaland and the Norway squad as they returned from the World Cup quarter‑finals.
What was the outcome of Norway’s World Cup quarter‑final match?
Norway lost in extra time to England, with Jude Bellingham scoring the winning goal, ending Norway’s historic run.
Did the Norwegian royal family take part in the welcome ceremony?
Yes, Crown Prince Haakon led the traditional “Viking Row” drum display, joining the players and fans in the celebration.
