Fans claim Ronaldo said 'Bismillah' before penalty kick in World Cup qualifier

Cristiano Ronaldo has once again captured the attention of football fans worldwide, not just for scoring a goal, but for an alleged utterance before a crucial penalty kick. During Portugal's 2-1 win against Croatia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, fans claim the star forward uttered the Islamic phrase 'Bismillah' (In the name of God) before taking his shot.

Television footage from the Round of 32 match shows the 41-year-old player seemingly speaking to himself for a few seconds before successfully converting the penalty. This moment has sparked discussion among fans on social media, with many interpreting his actions as a sign of invoking divine blessing before the decisive kick.

The alleged utterance adds another layer to Ronaldo's public persona, which has often been a subject of fascination for his global fanbase. While the exact words spoken are subject to interpretation, the incident has highlighted the diverse cultural and religious expressions that can emerge within the global sport of football.