A humorous Instagram post from the popular page Scottish Banter has gone viral, presenting a list of 'factual' reasons why Scotland should support Norway against England in the World Cup quarter-final on Saturday, July 11. The match, set to kick off at 10pm UK time at Miami Stadium, may be delayed due to extreme heat of 43°C and forecast thunderstorms.
Historical and cultural ties highlighted
The post blends genuine history with comedy, starting with the shared Viking heritage. It notes that many in northern Scotland can trace ancestry to Norse settlers, jokingly stating that statistically, some Scots are practically Norwegian.
Another reason celebrates Norway's annual Christmas tree gift to Edinburgh, a tradition since 1986, describing it as a symbol of friendship. The post quips: "Norway sends us a tree every year. England sends us Tory governments."
Orkney and Shetland connection
The post revisits the history of Orkney and Shetland, which became part of Scotland as security for a royal dowry in the 15th century. It jokes that Norway never truly lost the islands—Scotland simply never handed them back.
Language similarities are also highlighted, pointing out that Scots words like 'greet' (cry) and 'braw' (good) have Norwegian equivalents 'gråte' and 'bra'. The post suggests Scots have unknowingly been speaking a version of Norwegian.
Royal and wartime bonds
Historically, the post recalls Margaret, Maid of Norway, recognised as Scotland's heir in the late 13th century, giving a royal connection. It also pays tribute to the Shetland Bus operation during World War II, when Norwegian crews used fishing boats to ferry agents and supplies between Shetland and occupied Norway.
Landscape similarities are noted, comparing Norway's fjords to Scotland's sea lochs, with a joke that Norway often steals the spotlight. The post also jokes about shared unpredictable weather and contrasts how the two nations benefited from North Sea oil.
Public reaction
The post quickly gained attention, with one commenter saying: "Like this needed to be the excuse? Scotland doesn’t need any reason to support against the English." Another wrote: "Sold…" with Scotland and Norway flags. One user admitted: "I’m conflicted because I have both English and Scandinavian roots."
Another Scot joked that Norway's striker Erling Haaland should be the main reason to back Norway. Norwegians also enjoyed the post, with one saying: "Appreciated by this Norwegian," and another: "As a Norwegian, I will always gladly return the favour and support Scotland! Love you guys!"
Some English commenters accused Scotland of bitterness, but one embraced the joke: "I'm English and support this. Scotland will you let me in? I'm ginger so it's in there somewhere."
