The World Cup is undoubtedly one of the most exciting events to hit the States this year. But for one soccer fan, things became even more special.
In a viral TikTok under the handle @beachmom245, an excited man filmed himself in the audience of a recent World Cup game in Dallas. He filmed himself doing the famous “Viking Row” chant along with the rest of the audience. For those unaware, the “Viking Row” chant is a viral chant primarily done by Norwegian sport fans. The tradition involves fans mimicking Vikings paddling a ship by making synchronized rowing motions and swaying movements along with chanting.
But here’s the kicker (pun intended): Behind the person filming is the family of Erling Haaland, one of the soccer players representing Norway in the World Cup.
With Haaland’s family visible in the footage, accompanying on-screen text read, “When you buy last minute tickets to the World Cup and end up seated in Norway’s family section with Haaland’s family right behind you.”
The video has amassed 1.3 million views.
BroBible reached out to the TikToker via TikTok comment.
What Did Commenters Say?
Commenters were just as excited as the TikToker.
“Nah this is an original experience. With receipts,” one wrote.
“It really reminds you that they’re just someone’s baby,” a second added.
“You know what….The Norwegian row is pretty legit [fire emoji],” a third said. “Norway for the win!”
Several commenters also identified exactly who was in the audience supporting the striker, with a fourth noting, “His whole family was there! There are his older sister, oldest brother, his mom and his gf right behind you.”
Who Is Erling Haaland?
Erling Haaland, who was born on July 21, 2000, is one of the most talented soccer players on the pitch right now. The leading goal-scorer attracted a lot of attention during the World Cup and is widely considered to be instrumental in the country’s success in the competition so far.
As reported by the Mirror US, as of July 5, the sportsman has scored seven goals so far in the tournament. Most recently, on Sunday, July 5, Norway beat Brazil 2-1.
In an interview (cited by the Mirror US) following this victory, Haaland said, “I couldn’t quite believe it because I didn’t dream of this, ever in my life. I dreamt of playing in the World Cup with Norway and taking them to the World Cup, but I never expected to win against Brazil, let’s be honest.”
“I thought it was not possible to do some things, but I guess I’m wrong.”
He continued, “It’s incredible to win. I’ve said it now again and again, I never dreamt of this and, I mean, it’s a bit surrealistic to be in the moment to be with the biggest players in the World Cup.”
“Of course, as a football player you want to be in the World Cup and you want to perform. But let’s be honest, to score seven goals for Norway in the World Cup, it’s quite special.”
“It’s unreal and I don’t have words. It’s difficult to put into words what I’m feeling and what I’m doing, you know, because it is unreal, and I feel the need to pinch myself some times in the arm, because it’s big, you know.”
@beachmom245 BEST time at an amazing game. @Norway National Team 🇳🇴 @FIFA World Cup #norway #worldcup #dallas