Mitja Ilenič Trolls Messi with Cristiano Ronaldo Celebration in MLS Opener

New York City defender Mitja Ilenic made headlines during his team’s 2 - 2 draw against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami in opening match of the 2025 Major league soccer MLS season.

Ilenicscored New York City’s 1st goal in the 26 minute and immediately celebrated with cristiano ronaldo’s famous “Siuuuuu” jump, move that shocked messi and quickly went viral.

Speaking after the match, the Slovenian right back expressed his excitement, saying "I’m big fan of Cristiano Ronaldo. To be honest, it was my dream to do this celebration in front of Messi. It also shows my confidence and I’m really happy that it happened yesterday".

The moment added extra drama, where Messi’s 2 assist including one in the 10 minute of stoppage time, helped Miami rescue a point.

Messi was visibly frustrated after the game, both due to the result and his interactions with the referee, Ilenic’s bold tribute to Ronaldo may have added to his disappointment on the night.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.