The first leg of the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals saw an intense battle between Denmark and Portugal, but the moment that stole the spotlight came after the decisive goal. As the ball hit the back of the net in the 78th minute, Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund wheeled away in celebration—copying Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic ‘Siu’ celebration.
The 40-year-old Portuguese legend watched from the pitch as Hojlund performed the very move he made famous, sparking speculation about whether the young Danish forward was paying homage or mocking the veteran. Social media quickly erupted, with some fans accusing the young ace of disrespect, while others saw it as a tribute.
Following the accusations that he had mocked the veteran, the Dane was quick to clarify his intentions. Speaking to Danish broadcaster TV2, the 22-year-old striker insisted that his gesture came from a place of admiration rather than disrespect.
“It’s for my idol,” Hojlund revealed. “It wasn’t to mock him or anything. He’s had such a huge impact on me and my football career. Maybe it’s a bit ambivalent, but to score against him and Portugal is huge.”
Hojlund doing Ronaldo’s celebration after scoring against Portugal
He even shared a childhood memory of watching Ronaldo score a free-kick in 2011, a moment that shaped his admiration for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. “I remember him scoring from a free kick in 2011 when I went to watch the match, and since then, I’ve been a huge Cristiano fan.”
Ronaldo breaks his silence on Hojlund’s celebration
Now, Ronaldo himself has addressed the situation, and his response carries an unmistakable warning for the young striker. Ahead of the second leg between Portugal and Denmark, Ronaldo spoke at a press conference about Hojlund’s choice of celebration, making it clear that he harbored no ill feelings.
“Hojlund doing my celebration is not a problem. I know it wasn’t out of disrespect,” Ronaldo told the media. “I understand that not only him, but in all sports, there are people who celebrate like me.”
Then came his ominous eight-word message, one that hinted at a potential response on the pitch: “I hope that tomorrow, he’ll be the one to see me celebrate!” The message left fans wondering—will the Portuguese have the final say in Lisbon?
Up next: Decisive showdown in Lisbon
The second leg between Portugal and Denmark will be played at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, where the Al-Nassr captain and his teammates will attempt to overturn the deficit and advance to the Nations League semi-finals.
The stage is now set for CR7 to respond—not just with words, but with actions on the pitch. Will he deliver a performance worthy of his legendary status, or will Hojlund and Denmark knock theSeleção das Quinas out of the competition? One thing is certain—all eyes will be on Ronaldo, waiting to see if he gets the final say in this battle of celebrations.
