At the World Cup, Ghana striker Osman Bukari justified his choice to perform the "Siuuu" celebration in front of the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.
At Stadium 974 in Doha, the Black Stars were down 3-1 when substitute Bukari scored in the 83rd minute to force a tense conclusion.
The 23-year-old made the decision to perform Ronaldo's famous celebration in front of his "hero" rather than diving into the goal to retrieve the ball.
Bukari has also faced backlash on social media for celebrating while Ghana was down in the game. The winger for Red Star Belgrade has addressed these critics.
Bukari wrote on Twitter: "I have noticed my celebration today has generated comments claiming I was disrespectful towards Ronaldo. This is incorrect.
"I was overcome by the emotion of the moment of scoring for my country on my World Cup debut leading to my celebration.
"My upbringing doesn’t permit me to be disrespectful to elders let alone one of my idols. Thanks for your support and we focus on our next game!"
I have noticed my celebration today has generated comments claiming I was disrespectful towards Ronaldo
— Osman Bukari (@OsmanBukari9) November 24, 2022
This is incorrect. I was overcome by the emotion of the moment of scoring for my country on my World Cup debut leading to my celebration.
My upbringing doesn’t permit me
1/2 pic.twitter.com/5MWy0yaql0
Inaki Williams, who was hiding behind Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa in the closing seconds of the game, nearly gave Ghana the equalizer but slipped as he snatched the ball from the keeper.
With a win, Portugal moves to the top of Group H with three points, while Ghana remains in last place following Thursday's goalless draw between South Korea and Uruguay.