MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Ocean Drive turned into an international fan zone Friday as thousands of supporters from Norway and England flooded Miami Beach bars and restaurants ahead of Saturday’s FIFA World Cup quarterfinal at Hard Rock Stadium.
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For Norway, the match marks the country’s first World Cup appearance in 28 years and its first-ever trip to the tournament’s quarterfinals. Fans celebrated the historic run by filling South Beach with red, white and blue jerseys, Norwegian flags and Viking helmets while performing the team’s signature “Viking Row” chant.
Miami Beach officials closed Ocean Drive to vehicle traffic to accommodate the crowds, creating a festival atmosphere nearly 24 hours before kickoff.
“We’re so proud of our country,” one Norway supporter said. “Football is about love. It’s more than a game. It’s art. It’s love. It’s passion.”
Just a few blocks away, England supporters packed bars and restaurants, many having traveled from the United Kingdom and other parts of the world to watch the Three Lions compete for a place in the semifinals.
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“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” an England supporter named Ollie said. “England versus Norway in Miami.”
The quarterfinal also features two of the tournament’s biggest stars. Norway’s Erling Haaland has scored seven goals to lead his country to its deepest World Cup run, while England captain Harry Kane will look to guide the 1966 World Cup champions back to the semifinals.
Norway captain Martin Ødegaard has called England “an outstanding, world-class team,” acknowledging the challenge awaiting his squad. Norway has spent the week training in South Florida while adjusting to the region’s summer heat.
Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. EDT Saturday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, with the winner advancing to the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals.
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