What had FIFA World Cup fans Googling Erling Haaland in huge numbers?

Norway's superstar striker was the inspiration for a Viking row-inspired Easter Egg when his name was input in search engine.

Published Jul 09, 2026  •  2 minute read

Norway's Erling Braut Haaland and his teammates celebrate with the traditional rowing gesture after winning the 2026 World Cup round of 16 football match against Brazil. Getty Images

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FIFA World Cup fans were in for a special little treat on Thursday when they searched Erling Haaland’s name on Google.

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Users of the ubiquitous search engine that typed the name of the Norwegian striker were treated to a digital Easter egg – a group of Viking rowers moving across the bottom of their web browser.

The rowers, who are outfitted in red, traditional-looking Viking outfits – including helmets with horns – have circular Norway flag emojis for faces.

There is even an interactive sound effect button which, when clicked on, provides a thumping drum sound and a “RO!” exclamation.

Google added a digital Easter egg for users that search for Norway striker Erling Haaland. Google

The Viking row celebration has become a viral phenomenon since the tournament began last month.

At each Norway match so far, thousands of supporters have sat down and, in unison, mimicked the movement of Viking oars to the thunderous cry of “Ro!”.

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The Viking Row has gone viral, sweeping across North American stadiums at MLB games and other events, and taken over social media.

Haaland and other team leaders have taken turns leading the rows on the pitch after matches as the Norwegian side has advanced to the tournament’s quarterfinals.

Up next for Haaland and Norway is its biggest challenge yet, though: England.

What does Haaland think of England’s chances?

Haaland, who was born in England while his father Alfie played in the Premier League, has total respect for his quarterfinal opponent.

“It’s a special game, yeah, definitely. I think for me it’s super special, because I play in England and I was born in England, and you also play against teammates and everything,” Haaland said on Thursday. “It’s a funny game and it’s going to be nice.”

The three-time Premier League Golden Boot winner also felt like his side is the definitive underdog in Saturday’s match.

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“They should be confident of progressing, definitely. It’s England,” Haaland said about his opponent’s chances in the quarterfinal.

He also said that England should be considered a favourite to win the entire tournament.

“I think there’s some clear favourites out there, England’s one of them,” the Manchester City striker said, joking to reporters that he thinks they should “put every single pressure on the English lads.”

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