The primary leg of the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals noticed an intense battle between Denmark and Portugal, however the second that stole the highlight got here after the decisive purpose. Because the ball hit the again of the web within 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 carried out the very transfer he made well-known, sparking hypothesis about whether or not the younger Danish ahead was paying homage or mocking the veteran. Social media rapidly erupted, with some followers accusing the younger ace of disrespect, whereas others noticed it as a tribute.
Following the accusations that he had mocked the veteran, the Dane was fast to make clear his intentions. Talking to Danish broadcaster TV2, the 22-year-old striker insisted that his gesture got here from a spot of admiration fairly than disrespect.
“It’s for my idol,” Hojlund revealed. “It wasn’t to mock him or something. He’s had such a big impact on me and my soccer profession. Perhaps it’s a bit ambivalent, however to attain towards him and Portugal is big.”
Hojlund doing Ronaldo’s celebration after scoring towards Portugal
He even shared a childhood reminiscence of watching Ronaldo rating a free-kick in 2011, a second that formed his admiration for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. “I keep in mind him scoring from a free kick in 2011 once I went to observe the match, and since then, I’ve been an enormous Cristiano fan.”
Ronaldo breaks his silence on Hojlund’s celebration
Now, Ronaldo himself has addressed the scenario, and his response carries an unmistakable warning for the younger striker. Forward of the second leg between Portugal and Denmark, Ronaldo spoke at a press convention about Hojlund’s selection of celebration, making it clear that he harbored no unwell emotions.
“Hojlund doing my celebration shouldn’t be an issue. I do know it wasn’t out of disrespect,” Ronaldo advised the media. “I perceive that not solely him, however in all sports activities, there are individuals who have a good time like me.”
Then got here his ominous eight-word message, one which hinted at a possible response on the pitch: “I hope that tomorrow, he’ll be the one to see me have a good time!” The message left followers questioning—will the Portuguese have the ultimate say in Lisbon?
Up subsequent: Decisive showdown in Lisbon
The second leg between Portugal and Denmark might be performed on the Estadio Jose Alvalade, the place the Al-Nassr captain and his teammates will try and overturn the deficit and advance to the Nations League semi-finals.
The stage is now set for CR7 to reply—not simply with phrases, however with actions on the pitch. Will he ship a efficiency worthy of his legendary standing, or will Hojlund and Denmark knock theSeleção das Quinas out of the competitors? One factor is definite—all eyes might be on Ronaldo, ready to see if he will get the remaining say on this battle of celebrations.