Cristiano Ronaldo addressed Rasmus Hojlund’s imitation of his iconic “Siu” celebration after Portugal’s 1-0 Nations League defeat to Denmark, though he focused on rallying his team rather than directly confronting the gesture.
Hojlund’s 78th-minute winner in Copenhagen gave Denmark a first-leg advantage, with the Manchester United striker mimicking Ronaldo’s trademark celebration in front of the Portuguese icon. While Ronaldo’s reaction appeared subdued—standing with hands on hips—Hojlund clarified the gesture was a tribute, not mockery.
The 21-year-old Dane emphasized his admiration for Ronaldo, citing a 2009 free-kick goal he witnessed as a fan. “It’s for my idol,” Hojlund told TV2. “To score against him and Portugal is huge… maybe a bit ambivalent, but it couldn’t be better”.
Ronaldo avoided public criticism of Hojlund, instead urging Portugal to overturn the deficit in Sunday’s second leg. On Instagram, he wrote: “We have 90 minutes to turn around. Roll on Portugal!”
The result adds pressure to Portugal’s Nations League campaign, with Ronaldo facing scrutiny over his continued inclusion at 40. Meanwhile, Hojlund’s goal ended his 23-game goal drought that had persisted in the Premier League for Manchester United, boosting his confidence ahead of the return leg.
Portugal must win in Lisbon to advance, while Denmark aim to secure a semi-final berth against either Italy or Germany. Hojlund’s celebration, though divisive, underscores his reverence for Ronaldo—a dynamic that will linger as both players navigate their roles in international football