Højlund celebrates against Portugal with Ronaldo tribute as idol faces uncertain future

Rasmus Højlund says he copied Cristiano Ronaldo’s famous celebration after scoring for Denmark against Portugal because the Al-Nassr captain is his footballing idol and is going through a difficult period.

The Napoli striker scored during the teams’ meeting in the third round of the Nations League group stage before celebrating in Ronaldo’s trademark style.

“I did not hesitate for a moment to celebrate my goal against Portugal like Cristiano Ronaldo,” Højlund told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“I wanted him to know that there are still players who are inspired by everything he has achieved in his career. He has given so much to football and I have nothing but respect and admiration for him.”

Højlund added that he might only fully understand Ronaldo’s influence once his own playing career is over.

“Perhaps one day, after I finish my career, I will look back and realise how lucky I was to have played in the same era as my idol,” he said.

“Watching Ronaldo play was a huge part of my passion for football. When you see players like him, you dream of reaching that level one day.

“All I hope is that he knows his legacy is much greater than any difficult period he may be going through.”

Ronaldo’s Portugal future in doubt

The uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo began after Portugal’s second Group D match in the Nations League, a 2-1 victory over Norway in which he did not feature.

The Portugal captain did not train during the national team’s latest sessions. Jesus then criticised Ronaldo at a news conference before the match against Denmark, after which the player left the squad following an agreement with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation.

Portuguese newspaper O Jogo subsequently reported that Ronaldo had decided not to represent Portugal again and would prefer to retire from international football.

Ronaldo has played 234 matches for Portugal, scoring 146 goals and providing 45 assists.

He has won the European Championship once with his country and has lifted the Nations League twice.

Portugal currently lead Group D with nine points from three wins, maintaining a perfect record.