Without a home team to root for, Angelenos have shifted their support to the Norway Men’s National Team as they prepare to take on England in the World Cup quarterfinals
The United States Men’s National Team has been knocked out of the FIFA World Cup after a devastating 4-1 loss against Belgium in the Round of 16.
The team’s historic World Cup run made diehards out of casual soccer fans and brought Los Angeles together in a big way. Although they no longer have a hometown team to root for, the momentum has not died down for Angelenos, who are looking for a new team to support in the quarterfinals and beyond.
One look at social media and the choice is clear. Norway has taken the internet by storm, capturing the hearts of soccer fans and passive scrollers alike. They’ve earned the support of American soccer fans through their grit and commitment to having a blast playing the game we all love.
Norway’s iconic ‘Viking Row’ chant has confused and dazzled onlookers, as videos of Norwegian fans gathering in trains, on escalators, at games and in the streets have gone viral. The chant occurs when fans sit on the ground in Viking longboat formation, preparing to simulate an ocean row. The leader of the pack bangs a drum, slowly picking up the pace, while fans row their arms in unison, screaming “row!” with each movement.
After their 3-2 win against Senegal that clinched the team its spot in the knockout Round of 32, team captain Martin Ødegaard led his team in their own version of the row, delighting their fans and cementing the chant as a piece of World Cup history.
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The world hasn’t just fallen in love with Norway because of its chants. Its players have changed what it means to have fun and play a great game of soccer.
Norway’s striker Erling Haaland is a true breath of silly fresh air during a tournament that often requires players to put on their best poker face.
On the field, Haaland is the 6’5” “Striking Viking” who terrifies competitors with his intimidating stature and goal-scoring capabilities. He has scored a total of seven goals in this World Cup, tied with France’s Kylian Mbappé and just one goal behind Argentina’s Lionel Messi for the tournament’s top scorer. He’s one of the best soccer players in the world, but you wouldn’t know it from his online presence.
Off the field, Haaland is making the most of his World Cup experience, trying on cowboy hats and southern accents in Texas and posting selfies in the airport. He’s also been taking viewers along on his adventures through a docu-series on his YouTube channel, which now has over 2.7 million subscribers.
Haaland is fun, relatable and genuine, providing meme-worthy comedic relief and excitement to fans internationally.
If you want to get in on the action and support Norway alongside native Norwegians-turned-Angelenos, there are a few local bars hosting watch parties and celebrating Norwegian culture that invite you to “row” with them!
The Norwegian Seaman’s Church, or Sjømannskirken, opened in 1946 as a way to support Norwegians living abroad, especially those working in the shipping business. They provide religious services, youth programming, emergency preparedness and outreach work to Norwegian populations in and around the region. Celebrate the quarterfinal at the church with a watch party in the Reading Room, and a selection of waffles, popcorn and hot dogs! The event will be alcohol free, family-friendly and open to all, regardless of religious affiliation.
If you’re looking for an option on the Westside, check out Joxer Daly’s in Culver City. This Irish Pub has not always been an epicenter of Norwegian soccer, typically showing a variety of games and leaning into a classic sports bar vibe. During the tournament, however, Norwegian soccer fans looking for community on the Westside have begun to gather at Joxer Daly’s, a true testament to how quickly soccer can bring people together.
Now that Haaland and Team Norway have officially established themselves as the object of Los Angeles’ affection, it’s time for Angelenos to rally behind them as they take on Harry Kane and England this Saturday, June 11 at 2 pm.