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In a match dripping with drama, New York City FC’s Mitja Ilenic stole the spotlight—not just with his goal, but with a celebration that sent social media into a frenzy. After netting a crucial equalizer in Sunday’s 2-2 MLS opener against Inter Miami, the 20-year-old defender channeled Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic “Siu” celebration directly in front of Lionel Messi.
The audacious move sparked questions: Was it a tribute? A provocation? Or a nod to soccer’s greatest rivalry? As tensions flared post-match, Ilenic’s gesture became the night’s defining subplot.
Ilenic’s Ronaldo Tribute: A lifelong dream realized
Mitja Ilenic didn’t mince words post-game.
“I’m a big fan of Cristiano,” the Slovenian admitted, explaining his decision to mimic Ronaldo’s signature celebration after scoring against Messi’s Inter Miami. “That was my dream: to do it in front of [Messi]. It shows my confidence.”
The moment wasn’t just playful—it was symbolic. By invoking Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi’s eternal rival, Ilenic tapped into a decades-old narrative, blending personal fandom with on-field bravado.
The Match: Chaos, Red Cards, and Late Drama
Inter Miami started strong, with Tomas Aviles scoring in the fifth minute. But Aviles’ red card midway through the first half flipped the script. Ilenic capitalized three minutes later, slotting home a rebound before Alonso Martinez put NYCFC ahead. Messi, however, wasn’t done. The Argentine orchestrated a 100th-minute equalizer via Telasco Sogovia, salvaging a draw.
Yet post-match, Messi’s frustration boiled over. He confronted the referee, earning a yellow card, and exchanged heated words with NYCFC assistant coach Mehdi Ballouchy—a rare loss of composure from the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Why Cristiano Ronaldo’s Celebration?
Ilenic’s choice wasn’t random. As a Gen-Z player who grew up idolizing the Lionel Messi-Ronaldo rivalry, the gesture bridged generations. Cristiano Ronaldo’s “Siu” is more than a celebration—it’s a brand, a mindset. For Ilenic, replicating it in Messi’s presence was a statement of ambition.
“It’s about believing you belong on the same stage,” one analyst noted.
Whether Messi noticed or cared remains unclear, but the moment underscored soccer’s evolving theatrics, where young stars weaponize nostalgia to carve their own legacies.
What’s Next for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami?
The Herons face Sporting KC on Tuesday in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, clinging to a 1-0 aggregate lead thanks to Messi’s earlier heroics. But Sunday’s theatrics linger. Can Lionel Messi refocus after a fiery clash? And will Ilenic’s Ronaldo-esque confidence inspire NYCFC’s season? One thing’s certain: In a league craving global attention, moments like these are gold.
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