Cristiano Ronaldo shares his thoughts on Rasmus Hojlund’s ‘Siu’ celebration

Rasmus Hojlund's decision to mimic Cristiano Ronaldo's iconic ‘Siu’ celebration after scoring for Denmark in the Nations League quarter-final has stirred some debate. The 22-year-old forward found the net in the 78th minute during Thursday's match against Portugal, slotting a goal into the bottom corner to give Denmark a 1-0 lead following the first leg at Parken Stadium.

Despite the controversy surrounding his celebration, there appeared to be no tension between Hojlund and Ronaldo prior to the match. The incident has nonetheless drawn attention, especially with the strong resemblance to the Portuguese superstar’s trademark move.

Speaking after the game, Hojlund insisted that he was not mocking the player he considered as his "idol" and "the world's best footballer". Ronaldo, meanwhile, said he doesn't have an issue with the current United man. Ronaldo said of the incident: "It's no problem, for me it's not a problem.

"I knew it's not because he does not have respect for me, of course not. I'm smart enough to understand that not only him, but around the world other sportspeople use my celebration. For me it's an honour. But I hope tomorrow [tonight] he can see my celebration."

Rasmus Hojlund and Cristiano Ronaldo have met face-to-face for the first time since the controversial ‘Siu’ celebration moment, and any speculation about a potential rift between the two has been put to rest. Following the national anthems at Estadio Jose Alvalade, the two players, along with their teammates, shared a handshake without any signs of tension.

Ronaldo appeared calm and unaffected by the incident, with both players seemingly focused on the task ahead—helping their teams progress to the Nations League semi-final. The game kicked off shortly after, and less than five minutes into the match, Ronaldo had an opportunity to give Portugal the lead with a penalty. However, the 40-year-old's attempt was denied by Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, who made a brilliant save to keep the score level.

Hojlund himself also publicly spoke about his celebration following his goal in the first leg. He said: "I’m playing against the world’s best footballer, my idol, and to score a goal and win the match... it couldn’t be better."

"It’s for my idol. It’s not like I’m mocking him or anything. I’ve just always said that he has a lot of importance to me and my football career.

"It’s maybe a bit ambivalent, but scoring against him and Portugal is huge. I was there and saw him in 2009 when he scored from a free kick and I’ve been a fan ever since."