Ronaldo speaks out after Hojlund copies his famous goal celebration

Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence on Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund mimicking his iconic ‘Siii’ celebration, revealing he’s far from upset by the gesture ahead of a crunch Nations League clash.

The two forwards are set to face off again on Sunday evening when Portugal host Denmark in Lisbon, with a semi-final spot on the line.

Hojlund stole the spotlight on Thursday night, coming off the bench to score a 78th-minute winner in Denmark’s 1-0 victory over Ronaldo’s Portugal in Copenhagen.

After slotting home a close-range finish, the 22-year-old wheeled away and performed Ronaldo’s trademark jump-and-spin celebration, complete with the ‘Siii’ shout, right in front of the watching legend. The moment went viral, sparking debate over whether it was a tribute or a taunt.

Speaking ahead of the second leg, Ronaldo addressed the incident with his characteristic cool. “Hojlund doing my celebration is not a problem,” the 40-year-old said, as quoted by Portuguese outlet A Bola.

“I know it wasn’t out of disrespect. 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 do it instead!” The five-time Ballon d’Or winner flashed a wry smile, hinting at his determination to turn the tables.

Hojlund, who idolizes Ronaldo and credits him for inspiring his love of football, was quick to clarify his intentions after Thursday’s match. “It’s for my idol,” the United star told Danish broadcaster DR.

“It’s not like I’m mocking him or anything. I’ve always said he’s had a huge importance to me and my career.” The Denmark striker, who never played alongside Ronaldo at United—joining in 2023 after the Portuguese icon’s departure to Al-Nassr—saw his gesture as a nod to his childhood hero.

The exchange adds extra spice to Sunday’s showdown at the Estadio da Luz, where Portugal must overturn the deficit to progress. Ronaldo, who endured a quiet night in the first leg, will be eager to respond, while Hojlund aims to build on his recent hot streak.

The United forward ended a 21-match goal drought for club and country last weekend against Leicester, followed by Thursday’s heroics, boosting his confidence under Ruben Amorim’s management.

Fans on social media have lapped up the subplot, with one X user posting, “Ronaldo vs Hojlund is the rivalry we didn’t know we needed!”

Another quipped, “Hojlund doing the Siuuu in front of CR7 is peak football drama—can’t wait for the sequel.” Whether Ronaldo gets the last laugh remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear: the United-Portugal connection is alive and kicking.