Hojlund clarifies Ronaldo celebration was out of respect, not mockery

Denmark striker Rasmus Hojlund has insisted that his imitation of Cristiano Ronaldo's famous "Siuuu" celebration after scoring against Portugal was done out of admiration rather than mockery.

Hojlund struck in the 78th minute to secure a 1-0 win for Denmark in the first leg of their Nations League quarter-final on Thursday, while Ronaldo endured a frustrating night, struggling to make an impact. Coming off the bench, the Manchester United forward slotted home the decisive goal before replicating the iconic celebration of his childhood idol.

"I'm playing against the world's best footballer, my idol, and to score and become the match-winner—it couldn't be better," Hojlund told Denmark's TV2.

"It was not to mock him or anything. I've always said he has had great importance for me and my football career. Scoring against him and Portugal is huge. I went to see him in 2009, where he scored from a free kick, and I've been a fan ever since."

Hojlund has often spoken about how Ronaldo inspired his love for football and Manchester United. The Danish forward recently ended a goal drought at club level, scoring in United's win over Leicester City last weekend, and followed it up with another crucial strike against Portugal.