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Rasmus Hojlund has accused Portugal coach Jorge Jesus of showing a “lack of fair play” following Denmark’s 4-2 Nations League defeat to Portugal.
The Denmark striker was involved in a heated exchange with Jesus after Thursday’s match, with Hojlund later explaining that his reaction was linked to what he felt was disrespect from the Portugal head coach.
Hojlund had earlier grabbed the headlines by performing Cristiano Ronaldo’s trademark ‘Siuu’ celebration after scoring Denmark’s equaliser to make it 1-1.
Hojlund explains Ronaldo celebration
The Napoli forward said the celebration was intended as a tribute to Ronaldo, whom he has described as his biggest footballing idol.
“He has given so much to football, and I have nothing but respect for him. Maybe, one day, when my career is over, I’ll look back and realise how lucky I was to play in the same era as my idol,” Hojlund said.
Ronaldo had been absent from Portugal’s squad in the build-up to the game after being left on the bench for the team’s previous match against Norway and subsequently learning that he would not start against Denmark.
Hojlund’s celebration therefore attracted considerable attention, particularly given the circumstances surrounding Ronaldo’s departure from the camp.
Hojlund criticises Jesus after final whistle
The Denmark striker was then seen confronting Jesus after the match, with Hojlund appearing to pat the Portugal coach on the chest during the exchange.
He has now explained what prompted his reaction, insisting it was not related to Jesus’ tactical decisions.
“I made that gesture because he didn’t want to look me in the eyes. I think it was a lack of fair play,” Hojlund said, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.
“It really had nothing to do with Jorge Jesus’s tactical or technical choices.”
Portugal eventually secured a 4-2 victory after Denmark had briefly levelled the contest.