Hojlund Explains Ronaldo-Inspired Goal Celebration

Hojlund Clarifies Goal Celebration Was Not a Dig at Ronaldo

Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund has clarified that his goal celebration during Denmark’s 1-0 victory over Portugal was not intended to mock Cristiano Ronaldo.

The 21-year-old came off the bench to score the decisive goal in the first leg of their UEFA Nations League quarter-final clash. Latching onto a cross from Andreas Skov Olsen, Hojlund calmly slotted the ball into the net and marked the moment by replicating Ronaldo's iconic celebration.

However, he was quick to dispel any suggestion of disrespect towards the Portuguese legend.

"It wasn't meant as a mockery or anything like that," Hojlund told Danish broadcaster TV2. "I've always said Cristiano has had a huge influence on me and my football journey."

"Playing against one of the greatest footballers in history, scoring, and helping my team to victory — it really doesn't get better than that," he added. "To score against him and Portugal is a special moment. I remember going to see him play in 2009 when he scored a free-kick, and I’ve been a fan ever since."

Cristiano Ronaldo, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star now playing for Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr, featured for the full 90 minutes in the match.

Hojlund’s 78th-minute strike also continued his recent resurgence in front of goal. It marked back-to-back scoring appearances for club and country, following his goal that ended a 21-match drought against Leicester City in the Premier League last weekend.

The win was a deserved one for Denmark under new head coach Brian Riemer. They now travel to Lisbon for Sunday’s return leg with confidence and momentum.

Earlier in the match, veteran midfielder Christian Eriksen had a chance to give Denmark the lead from the penalty spot. However, Portugal’s goalkeeper Diogo Costa produced a brilliant save, diving to his right to parry the ball away as it headed towards the bottom corner.

Denmark had been awarded the penalty after Eriksen’s free-kick struck the arm of Portugal’s Renato Veiga inside the box.