Before the start of the World Cup, the Norwegians presented themselves as Vikings in order to scare their opponents even more – and to cover up a weakness.
In the background the fjord and simple wooden boats, in the foreground a small Viking army with helmets and war equipment, with spears, swords, axes, shields, bows and arrows: This is how Erling and the strong men prepare for their World Cup mission in the New World. “America, we are coming!” is the battle cry of the Norwegian national team. Whether it’s on Football, rugby-, hockey or football field, it doesn’t matter. They are ready to run their opponents into the ground – and take no prisoners.
Not that Erling Haalandthe storm giant of Manchester Cityand consorts based on the example of the Vikings would actually have set sail to cross the Atlantic on their raid and bring the gold cup home. But the staging and the martial appearance in the style of the ancestors before the departure to North America are designed to scare the opponents even more. As if their opponents in the preliminary round – Iraq, Senegal and France – weren’t already sufficiently intimidated by the Norskers’ sheer physical presence.
Like Austria, Norway has qualified for a World Cup for the first time since France 28 years ago. It must be said that Haaland and Co. are considered secret favorites Alaba and Co. on the US West Coast. The Neo-Vikings’ biggest enemy could turn out to be the humid heat on the US East Coast, which makes even the strongest men weak.
Emails to: thomas.vieregge@diepresse.obfuscationcom
