Cristiano Ronaldo’s gesture resembling a Muslim-style prayer during the UEFA Nations League final penalty shootout against Spain on Sunday has captured widespread attention, especially among his Muslim fans.
prayer works.
thank god for your kindness towards the most good hearted person.#CristianoRonaldo #PortugalVsSpain pic.twitter.com/uvE9rpc5oV— 𝒘🎐 (@_suckmypopsicle) June 9, 2025
The emotional final saw Portugal clinch their second Nations League title after a dramatic 2-2 draw, ultimately defeating holders Spain 5-3 on penalties. Ronaldo scored his 138th international goal to help push the match to a shootout.
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Spain’s Alvaro Morata missed a crucial penalty, allowing Ruben Neves to net the winning spot-kick, sparking jubilant celebrations as the veteran Portuguese captain was seen in tears.
Images of Ronaldo folding his hands in a way that resembled traditional Islamic prayer quickly went viral on social media. “Ronaldo spotted making dua on the field,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Some fans suggested Ronaldo may have picked up the prayer gesture during his time in Saudi Arabia. “Saudi Arabia taught Cristiano Ronaldo to pray… and Portugal won!” wrote one user.
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Another fan reacted in disbelief, saying, “I know y’all see Cristiano ibn Ronaldo praying and making dua—stop playing with me.”
“The prayer worked for Cristiano Ronaldo,” commented another user.
For those unaware, Ronaldo was substituted due to injury late in the match. Neither team managed to score in extra time, leading to a penalty shootout where Portugal converted all five spot-kicks to secure the trophy.