Norwegian supporters turned Manhattan’s Times Square into a living Viking Row, marching up an escalator in orange and blue gear as the nation’s World Cup hopes burn bright. Fans sang folk chants, waved flags and streamed live footage to stadiums back home, turning a tourist landmark into a rallying point for the squad’s opening group match.

Saturday’s slate features four group games. In Houston, Netherlands clash with Sweden, while Toronto hosts Germany against Ivory Coast. Kansas City sees Ecuador debut against Curaçao, and Monterrey stages Tunisia versus Japan. Each fixture carries weight as teams vie for the three points needed to stay alive in the tournament.

The matchups could reshape Group D and Group F, with Norway’s fanfare reflecting a squad that already secured a win. Ecuador’s first‑ever World Cup appearance offers a chance to shock seasoned sides, while Japan seeks redemption after a shaky start. The outcomes will determine which nations advance to the knockout round.

Broadcasters report a surge in viewership as the novelty of fan zones and debut nations draws casual audiences. Advertisers capitalize on the global platform, with sponsors rolling out limited‑edition merchandise tied to the Viking motif. As kickoff approaches, the world watches Norway’s cultural splash and the on‑field battles that will define the tournament’s early narrative.