Palmeiras entered their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Matchday 3 clash against Inter Miami looking for a result that would secure the top spot in the group. However, defender Murilo Cerqueira, who had revealed plans to celebrate like Cristiano Ronaldo in front of Lionel Messi, was forced to exit the game due to injury.
In the 15th minute, with Palmeiras on the attack, Federico Redondo cleared the ball for Inter Miami, triggering a lethal counter. Luis Suarez controlled the ball with his chest and laid it off to Tadeo Allende, who raced into a one-on-one with the goalkeeper and calmly slotted home the opening goal.
While chasing Allende down, Murilo pulled up and collapsed to the ground in visible discomfort as his team conceded. Unable to continue, Palmeiras head coach Abel Ferreira replaced him with Bruno Fuchs.
What did Murilo say?
The matchup between Inter Miami and Palmeiras had already attracted plenty of attention with the top spot in Group A on the line. But Murilo raised the stakes even further after declaring his intention to mimic Ronaldo’s trademark celebration if he found the back of the net.
Speaking at Sunday’s pre-match press conference, Murilo was asked who he considered the greatest player of all time. Without hesitation, he responded: “I’m team Ronaldo. He’s a complete player. Even his attitude on the field is something I see as a positive. What really makes him stand out is his discipline. I try to follow that—his routine, his mindset. I really admire him.”
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Pressed on whether he would perform Ronaldo’s iconic “siuu” celebration if he scored against Miami, Murilo confidently confirmed it. “Yes. I’ll do it,” Murilo boldy stated.
Palmeiras, considered favorites in the group, were dealt a double blow — conceding an early goal while losing a key defensive piece. Meanwhile, Murilo’s much-anticipated promise to recreate Ronaldo’s celebration remains unfulfilled, missing out on a moment that could have gone down in Club World Cup lore.
