Denmark secured a vital first-leg victory over Portugal in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals, thanks to a decisive goal from Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund. Yet, the highlight of the match wasn’t just the goal—it was Hojlund’s post-goal celebration, where he mimicked Cristiano Ronaldo’s signature move right in front of the Portuguese superstar. Ronaldo, however, has made his stance on the matter crystal clear.
In today’s soccer landscape, it’s not unusual to see players across the globe replicate Ronaldo’s iconic celebration. What made Hojlund’s action stand out was the fact that he did it against Cristiano Ronaldo. But for the Portuguese captain, there’s no hard feeling involved.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo emphasized there was no disrespect in Hojlund’s gesture and even seemed to appreciate the homage. He also warned at a potential response in the second leg.
“Hojlund doing my celebration is not a problem. I know it wasn’t out of disrespect,” Cristiano Ronaldo noted. “I understand that not only him, but in all sports, there are people who celebrate like me. I hope that tomorrow he’ll be the one to see me celebrate!”
¿Burla? ¡Gol de Dinamarca y lo celebran como Cristiano Ronaldo!
Hojlund explains the reason behind his celebration
Following the match, Rasmus Hojlund clarified his reasons for imitating Ronaldo’s celebration, stressing that it was intended as a tribute, not provocation. “The 7-year-old me, the fan [of Cristiano], might have taken over after scoring,” Hojlund wrote on Instagram after the game.
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In a post-match interview, the Danish forward expanded on his explanation. “I’ve never hidden the enormous influence [Cristiano Ronaldo] has had on me and my soccer career. I was playing against the greatest player in the world, my idol, and scoring the game-winner… It couldn’t have been more perfect,” Højlund explained.
He went on to add: “Cristiano means everything to me. I fell in love with soccer because of Cristiano, I became a Manchester United fan because of Cristiano. I always wanted to be Cristiano”.
Second leg set for sunday in Portugal
Denmark’s 1-0 win over Portugal in the first leg of the Nations League quarterfinals was pivotal, as the two teams gear up for the return match this Sunday. Hojlund’s goal could prove decisive, with both nations vying for a spot in the semifinals to stay in contention for the championship.
Elsewhere in the quarterfinals, Spain and the Netherlands are tied after a 2-2 draw in Rotterdam. Croatia holds a commanding 2-0 lead over France following their victory in Zagreb, while Germany leads Italy 2-1, making them the only visiting team to have won in this phase.