Wayne Rooney’s vow to ‘go in the River Mersey’ if Norway reach World Cup quarter-final resurfaces after epic Brazil win

WAYNE ROONEY’S hilarious promise to jump into the River Mersey has come back to haunt him. Norway pulled off one of the a well deserved World Cup shock by dumping mighty Brazil out of the tournament. The Scandinavians stunned the five-time world champions 2-1 in New York to book their place in the quarter-finals, with Erling Haaland once again proving the difference on the biggest stage. The Manchester City goal machine struck twice to leave Brazil reeling in the second half as Norway produced a fearless display against one of football‘s greatest nations. Brazil threatened a late comeback when Neymar, who has now confirmed his retirement from international football, converted from the penalty spot after Casemiro was brought down in the box. But it proved to be nothing more than a consolation as Norway held firm to spark wild celebrations at MetLife Stadium and send the football world into disbelief. READ MORE WORLD CUP NEWS The stunning victory also reignited Rooney’s bold claim made earlier in the tournament that he would go into the River Mersey if Norway reached the World Cup quarter-finals. At the time, the former England captain made the tongue-in-cheek vow while discussing Norway’s chances, with many fans viewing it as little more than a light-hearted prediction. He said on Match of the Day: “If Norway get to the quarter final I go inot the River Mersey and I’ll row down it.” Now, after watching Haaland inspire Norway to one of the greatest results in the nation’s history, plenty of supporters are reminding Rooney that his promise could soon be put to the test. Most read in Sport WORLD CUP 2026 FREE BETS AND SIGN UP OFFERS Norway have become one of the stories of the tournament, with Haaland leading an exciting young side that continues to exceed expectations with every passing match. After knocking out mighty Brazil, there are now genuine believers that Norway could go all the way and complete one of the greatest World Cup fairy tales ever seen even if England beat Mexico and set up a classic clash. Rooney’s prediction, once laughed off by many, suddenly doesn’t seem quite so outrageous after Norway’s unforgettable night, with the quarter-finals now awaiting the Scandinavian side. They will face England after the Three Lions held on against co-hosts Mexico in a chaotic 3-2 win in Mexico City.