Laughter filled the hotel's private lounge, where the Norwegian national team was spending a relaxing evening after training. For once, there were no tactics, conferences, or matches awaiting them: just music, good food, and the company of their loved ones.

Leading the group was captain Erling Haaland, who entered hand in hand with his wife Misa. The two had only been married a few weeks, and despite the constant jokes from their teammates, they couldn't stop smiling.

"Here they are!" exclaimed Alexander Sørloth. "The newlyweds have finally arrived!"

"Captain, you've been keeping us waiting too long now," added Martin Ødegaard with a laugh.

Erling smiled, lightly squeezing Misa's hand.

"A captain always arrives at the right time."

The laughter grew even louder. Julian Ryerson, Leo Skiri Østigård, Kristian Thorstvedt, Patrick Berg, Antonio Nusa, Fredrik Aursnes, Andreas Hanche-Olsen, Jørgen Strand Larsen, and David Møller Wolfe approached to say hello, while nearby, Helene Spilling and the other players' wives and girlfriends warmly welcomed Misa and immediately began chatting with her.

"Captain!" Sørloth called. "We've organized a pairs' billiards tournament. You and Misa against us."

Erling looked at his wife with a smile.

"What do you say? Shall we beat them?"

Misa lifted the piano.

"Let's show them what we can do."

Between foosball games, darts, group photos, and constant teasing, the evening passed with smiles and moments of complicity. Every now and then, Erling would catch Misa's eye, squeeze her hand, or kiss her forehead, prompting yet another chorus of amused boos from the team.

"Captain!" Østigård stood up. "Since you got married, you've become too romantic."

Erling simply smiled, putting his arm around Misa's waist.

"And I wouldn't change a thing."

For one evening, they weren't just players on the Norwegian national team: they were friends, teammates, and a big family, happy to share a special moment together.