Rasmus Hojlund was involved in a heated exchange with Portugal manager Jorge Jesus after copying Cristiano Ronaldo’s celebration. The former Manchester United striker appeared to shove the 72-year-old after the former Benfica boss smacked him on the chest during a bizarre interaction.
Celebration sparks clash
Hojlund netted Denmark's second goal on Thursday night, wheeling off before performing Ronaldo's trademark 'Siu' celebration. The manner of the celebration comes amid another bitter dispute involving Red Devils hero Ronaldo after the 41-year-old walked out on international duty.
Ronaldo had been an unused substitute in the 2-1 win over Norway, but he took matters into his own hands, leaving the camp, igniting a rift with Jesus in the early stages of a four-year deal in the hot seat.
Not the first time
It isn't the first occasion that Hojlund has copied Ronaldo's celebration against his country. He scored the decisive goal in 2025 before racing away to perform it.
His remarks at the time reveal a degree of allegiance to the former United and Real Madrid icon, suggesting his celebration may well have been a statement directed at Jesus and a show of support for Ronaldo.
Speaking in 2025, Hojlund said: "It's for my idol. It wasn't to mock him or anything. He's had such a huge impact on me and my football career."
"Maybe it's a bit ambivalent but to score against him and Portugal, it's huge. I remember him scoring from a free-kick in 2011, when I went to watch the match, and, since then, I've been a huge Cristiano fan."
Ronaldo's response
Ronaldo was equally gracious in his response, making clear he had taken no offence: "For me, it's not a problem. I know it wasn't an act of disrespect. I'm smart enough to realise that."
"Not only him, all over the world, several athletes celebrate me. For me, it's an honour, but I hope he can see my celebration tomorrow [Sunday]."
Jesus, who only took over from Roberto Martinez in the summer after penning a four-year deal, finds himself under mounting pressure to manage the simmering tensions surrounding Ronaldo.
The veteran forward was left out of the starting line-up in the 2-1 victory over Norway and remained on the bench throughout, a situation that ultimately prompted his announcement about departing the camp early.
The 41-year-old said on social media: "After the press conference of the national team and following a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team training camp."
"In time, I will tell all the Portuguese the truth about the reasons that motivated me to leave."
