Rasmus Hojlund clarifies Ronaldo-inspired celebration after Denmark's win over Portugal

By SABC Sport
21st March 2025

Rasmus Hojlund has dismissed suggestions that his goal celebration against Portugal was meant to mock Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting instead that it was a tribute to his lifelong idol.

The Manchester United striker came off the bench to net a late winner in Denmark's 1-0 victory over Portugal in the first leg of their Nations League quarter-final. After scoring, Hojlund marked the moment by replicating Ronaldo's iconic 'Siu' celebration-a move that quickly sparked debate.

However, the 21-year-old was quick to set the record straight.

"It wasn't meant as mockery or disrespect," Hojlund told Danish broadcaster TV2. "I've always said Ronaldo has been a massive influence on my career. He's my idol. Scoring against him and Portugal is something special - I've been a fan since I watched him score a free-kick in 2009."

Hojlund's 78th-minute strike not only secured a crucial win for Denmark but also continued his recent resurgence in front of goal. Having ended a 21-game goal drought with Manchester United just days earlier against Leicester, he has now found the net in consecutive matches for club and country.

Denmark's victory, under new head coach Brian Riemer, was well-deserved. They will now travel to Lisbon for Sunday's second leg (19:45 GMT) full of confidence.

While Denmark celebrated, Portugal and their captain Cristiano Ronaldo endured a frustrating night. The Al Nassr forward played the full 90 minutes but failed to make a significant impact, with his only real chance being a wayward header.

Denmark could have gone ahead earlier when Christian Eriksen won a first-half penalty after his volley struck the arm of Renato Veiga. However, Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa produced a brilliant save, diving to his right to keep out the spot-kick.

Eriksen came close again in the second half, seeing one effort cleared off the line by his Manchester United teammate Diogo Dalot and another free-kick denied by Costa. But eventually, it was Hojlund who delivered the breakthrough.

Denmark now hold the advantage heading into the decisive second leg in Lisbon. Meanwhile, Portugal will need a major improvement if they want to turn the tie around.

The loser of the tie won't just be eliminated from the Nations League-they will also drop into Scotland's World Cup qualifying group, where they would face Greece and Belarus in a tricky path to the 2026 tournament.

As for Hojlund, his celebration may have sparked discussion, but his growing form speaks for itself. With his idol on the pitch, he delivered a performance Ronaldo himself would have been proud of.