Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo defended Denmark star Rasmus Hojlund, asserting that his celebration in front of him during the Portugal-Denmark match was not disrespectful.
Hojlund appeared before the media and said that he did not mean to mock Ronaldo, but rather that his celebration was simply an imitation of his football idol.
Ronaldo was asked about the matter at the press conference ahead of Sunday’s second leg, and he replied, “No, I don’t think what Hojlund did was disrespectful or anything like that.”
He added, “Athletes around the world imitate my celebration, so it’s okay. I understand he’s not the only one who does it.”
He continued, “I hope I score in the second leg and that he sees my celebration. If I score, I’ll be happy, but if I don’t, I hope one of my teammates scores. All I care about is Portugal winning.”
It’s worth noting that Denmark won the first leg in Copenhagen thanks to a goal from Højland, meaning the Sailors must win the second leg by more than one goal to reach the 2025 UEFA Nations League semi-finals.
