Main Street: World Cup and Park/Rec soccer
The 2026 FIFA World Cup spanned 39 days and included 104 matches between 48 teams. Once the U.S. team was eliminated, I didn’t have a dog in the fight, or so I thought. I’ve been Norwegian by marriage since becoming a Thoreson 40 years ago. Bert’s grandparents immigrated from Norway, and his father, though born in America, lived in a home where only Norwegian was spoken until he was 9 years old.
Segway to a few weeks ago and making it a point to watch the Norway matches. Like millions around the world, I was smitten with Erling Haaland, the charismatic golden-haired Viking with a playful personality and mad soccer skills. But mostly I was in awe of the Norwegian fans and their enthusiasm, sportsmanship and national pride. The fans and their Viking Row chant became sensations.
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