Former Everton and England striker Wayne Rooney has made a bizarre promise live on BBC: if Norway defeat Brazil in the World Cup last-16 on Sunday night, he will row down the River Mersey. The pledge came after Norway secured their place in the knockout stage with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in Dallas, thanks to a late winner from Erling Haaland.
Norway's Dramatic Victory
Erling Haaland scored in his 13th consecutive competitive international to send Norway through, turning home from close range after good work from Martin Odegaard. Antonio Nusa had earlier put Norway ahead before Amad levelled with a moment of magic. The victory set up a last-16 clash with Brazil, who booked their place with a stoppage-time winner from substitute Gabriel Martinelli against Japan on Monday night.
Rooney's River Mersey Promise
During BBC's live coverage, presenter Gabby Logan noted that Norway's players and staff were preparing to do the 'Viking Row' celebration seen throughout the tournament. She said: "They're preparing to do their iconic row, Wayne has been practicing, he hasn't promised to deliver it tonight but before the end of the tournament. If Norway ends up beating Brazil, there is a possibility, if England get through, they'd face England."
Rooney then promised: "If Norway get to the quarter-finals, I will go in the River Mersey and I'll row down it." Logan replied: "You heard that here first! It's not exactly presenting Match of the Day in your underpants, but I think it's a fairly good thing to commit to. I'm pretty sure we'll hold you to that as well."
Brazil's Comeback
Brazil's dramatic comeback against Japan saw Casemiro head home just before the hour mark before Martinelli scored five minutes into stoppage time. Rooney commented: "I think for Norway to keep doing the same thing, they know they're a threat, and they know they can score goals. Brazil are a bit more organised than what we have seen in the past. For Norway, keep doing what you're doing and try to create chances and get Haaland opportunities."
Haaland's Impact
Rooney added: "Erling Haaland and Gabriel have had a good running battle over the last couple of years, and it will be a fascinating game. Norway are a very good team, and purely because of that man. Because of his goals, he has proven that he belongs at this World Cup level. He is just devastating. He wasn't in the game much, but he came up with the winning goal."
