NORWAY’s manager ran straight into the stands to kiss his wife after qualifying for the World Cup knockout stages.
The Scandinavians qualified with a 3-2 win over Senegal thanks in part to a double from Erling Haaland.
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Stale Solbakken ran into the crowd to share a kiss with his wife after Norway’s win over Senegal Credit: Getty
The manager had just seen his side qualify for the knockout stages at the World Cup Credit: Getty
But nobody was more pleased than Stale Solbakken, whose first thought after the victory was apparently one of romance.
The tactician, 58, jumped into the stands and ran to his wife, Anniken, before sharing an emotional kiss.
The pair then embraced as Solbakken raised a fist towards the crowd in celebration.
Fans loved the sweet moment, with one writing on social media: “LONG LIVE THE ROMANTICS!”
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Another added: “What a beautiful moment.”
The overwhelming moment clearly meant a massive amount to him, especially given that this year’s tournament is the first the nation have qualified for since 1998.
He was quickly back on the pitch to enjoy the moment with his players.
He even took part in Norway‘s joint ‘row’ celebration, which is quickly becoming iconic at the tournament.
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Solbakken’s passion was evident as he celebrated the victory Credit: Getty
He even joined his players in a Norwegian row, lead by captain Martin Odegaard Credit: Reuters
Marcus Holmgren Pedersen opened the scoring after capitalising on a mistake from Kalidou Koulibaly, firing in at the near post.
Erling Haaland doubled his side’s advantage after being played in behind by Arsenal‘s Martin Odegaard, before celebrating together in style by the corner flag.
Senegal clawed themselves back into the contest through a brilliantly-improvised finish from Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr.
But Haaland struck again soon after with a poacher’s finish from close range to restore the Scandinavians’ cushion.
Erling Haaland is in the hunt for the golden boot thanks to his second double in as many games Credit: Alamy
Edouard Mendy’s injury prompted a nail-biting spell of nine minutes of added time.
And tensions in MetLife Stadium were not alleviated by Sarr adding another to his tally in the 93rd minute, bringing his side back within one.
But the task proved too great for the African nation, with Norway holding out for a 3-2 win.
The result left them second in their group, behind France on goal difference, with the pair set to play later this week to decide who goes through Group I as leaders.
