Rasmus Hojlund (foto: Uradni FB/TW/IG profil igralca)
Rasmus Højlund received support from eight Manchester United teammates after controversially copying Cristiano Ronaldo’s celebration in Denmark’s 1-0 win over Portugal.
Rasmus Højlund found himself in the spotlight after scoring the winner for Denmark against Portugal in the UEFA Nations League quarter-final and celebrating by mimicking Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic gesture.
The 22-year-old Manchester United striker sealed a 78th-minute goal at Parken Stadium in Copenhagen, handing Denmark a narrow first-leg advantage. While the celebration sparked controversy, Højlund made it clear it came from admiration, not mockery.
“The 7-year-old fan in me might’ve gotten the overhand after I scored,” Højlund wrote on Instagram, alongside a photo of the celebration. “It’s for my idol. It’s not like I’m mocking him or anything. I’ve just always said that he has a lot of importance to me and my football career.”
Support from Old Trafford dressing room
Eight United teammates have shown their support by liking the post, including Harry Amass, Leny Yoro, Altay Bayındır, Patrick Dorgu, Chido Obi, Joshua Zirkzee, Ethan Wheatley, and Matthijs de Ligt.
Højlund’s goal comes just a week after ending a 21-match scoring drought for Manchester United, netting against Leicester City. His upturn in form is timely, as Ruben Amorim’s side look to push for Europa League glory this season.
Ronaldo and Portugal eye second-leg response
Ronaldo also received backing from United players, with Diogo Dalot and Wheatley liking his latest Instagram post. The Portuguese legend remained defiant, writing, “We have 90 minutes to turn around. Roll on Portugal!”
The second leg will be played in Lisbon on Sunday, with the winner advancing to face either Germany or Italy in the Nations League semi-finals this June.