Rasmus Højlund explains Cristiano Ronaldo celebration after Denmark defeat

Rasmus Højlund said his imitation of Cristiano Ronaldo’s celebration was intended to send a strong message to Portugal after Denmark’s 4-2 defeat in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday.

The Denmark striker scored in the 53rd minute, briefly giving the home side a moment to celebrate despite Portugal ultimately securing victory in the third-round match.

Højlund ran in behind the Portugal defence and found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper. With the goalkeeper advancing, the forward lifted his finish over him and watched the ball settle in the net.

He then ran towards the side of the pitch before jumping and performing Ronaldo’s trademark “Siu” celebration, complete with the familiar cry associated with the Portugal captain.

The gesture quickly became one of the most discussed moments of the match. According to Tribuna, Højlund was asked about the celebration after the final whistle and was clear about why he had chosen to copy Ronaldo.

“I just wanted to send a strong message to the Portugal team: if they do not appreciate Cristiano, there are many people around the world whom he has inspired and who still admire him,” Højlund said.

His comments underlined his admiration for Ronaldo’s legacy and his status in football. They also offered direct support for the 39-year-old during a difficult period surrounding his position with the Portugal squad.

Ronaldo did not feature against Denmark after leaving Portugal’s camp angrily. His departure followed an escalation in his problems with manager Jorge Jesus, with the dispute reportedly linked to his limited playing time.

That meant Ronaldo was absent as his former influence was reflected in Højlund’s celebration. The Denmark forward’s goal and subsequent message gave the match an additional storyline beyond Portugal’s two-goal victory.

Although Højlund’s gesture paid tribute to Ronaldo, his explanation went further than simply copying a familiar celebration. He used the moment to stress that, whatever the current situation within the Portugal camp, Ronaldo continues to have supporters and admirers around the world.