Thousands of Norwegian fans transformed a heartbreaking 2-1 quarter-final loss to England into an impromptu street party, flooding Oslo's streets at 2 a.m. local time to salute their team's historic World Cup run. The scene outside the Royal Palace bore little resemblance to a defeat, with supporters chanting, singing, and sharing brown cheese long after the final whistle in Miami. Main Developments Fans clad in red, white, and blue marched toward the Royal Palace from across Oslo for one final "Viking row"—the thunderous ritual that turned Norwegian supporters into tournament darlings. Chants of "We are gonna win the Euros in two years"—set to Twisted Sister's "We're Not Gonna Take It"—rang out as fireworks crackled over Karl Johan street. The national anthem echoed through the night as flares lit up the sky above tens of thousands of celebrants. One supporter told public broadcaster NRK: "It has been an amazing journey. The Viking row has gone around the world and we have done everything and more than we could dream of." Read also: Why a controversial red card shattered Switzerland's World Cup dream Background Norway had never won a knockout-stage match in the World Cup before this year's finals, making their run to the quarter-finals unprecedented. Four years ago, such a deep tournament run would have been dismissed as unlikely by even the most optimistic supporters. The team fell 2-1 to England after extra time in Miami, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice to send England into the semi-finals. Yet the sting of defeat was palpable but secondary to the pride fans felt. Why It Matters Norway's tournament performance has fundamentally shifted expectations for the national team, with fans now openly dreaming of European Championship glory within two years. The "Viking row" phenomenon captured global attention, turning Norwegian supporters into the tournament's most celebrated fanbase. One fan at the Palace square reflected the mood: "It's national pride, we are celebrating something we did together." Another added: "We are proud of them. Thanks for the great memories." What's Next Norway's focus now shifts to the 2028 European Championships, where fans believe the team can contend for the title. The squad's young core and the unprecedented support from home could make them a formidable force in international football for years to come.