A Viking-Themed Team Photo

To commemorate its return to the World Cup after nearly three decades, Norway’s national team revealed a team photo featuring Viking attire; the image, which has drawn widespread attention, shows players dressed as medieval Nordic warriors, according to the Korea Joongang Daily. The backdrop features a Viking ship and fjords, symbolizing the historical link between the team and the Viking heritage.

Team Dynamics and Roster

Among Norway’s squad is Aasgaard, a midfielder who joined Rangers in July 2023; he received his first senior call-up in March 2024, though Aasgaard played for Luton Town before joining Rangers and is now part of a team that includes prominent names like Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard. Jonathan, Aasgaard’s father, said the family was excited when the King of Norway announced the squad, according to the BBC.

The team’s roster also includes players who once trained at Liverpool’s youth academy. Norway’s squad includes Aasgaard, England’s Anthony Gordon, and Iraq’s Ali Al-Hamadi, all of whom were once Liverpool schoolboys, according to the BBC. Aasgaard and Al-Hamadi could face each other when Norway plays Iraq on June 14.

Preparation and Cultural Touches

Before their opening match, the Norwegian team took in the Stanley Cup Final on June 11, according to the USA Today. Erling Haaland and his teammates attended a Game 5 matchup between the Carolina Hurricanes and Vegas Golden Knights. The game was held in Raleigh, just under 90 minutes from where Norway is training in Greensboro, North Carolina.

The team also made a memorable appearance in Boston, where they took the most iconic team photo ever, complete with a Viking ship, according to the USA Today. They also celebrated with a unique team photo where each player wore the jersey of their first club.

Despite the cultural and historical flair, Norway’s focus is on football. The team’s first match is against Iraq on June 14 in Boston. Norway will then face Senegal at MetLife Stadium on June 22 and conclude the group stage with a game against France in Boston on June 26, according to the USA Today.