Fans of Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of the Portuguese national team, reacted strongly to the moment he whispered 'Bismillah' while scoring against Croatia in the 2026 World Cup.

Ronaldo broke his long-standing curse and scored his first goal in a World Cup knockout match, finding the net against Croatia early Friday in the Round of 32. The game ended 2-1 in favor of Portugal, setting up a highly anticipated fiery clash against Spain in the Round of 16.

Ronaldo's goal came from a penalty kick in the 68th minute, which he powerfully struck into the middle of the Croatian net.

Cameras captured Ronaldo murmuring 'Bismillah, Bismillah' before successfully taking the penalty kick, a moment many saw as evidence of his influence by Islamic culture after living in the Saudi city of Riyadh for over three years.

Although it is not the first time the Portuguese star has used the Basmalah before taking set pieces, the clip spread like wildfire, topping social media platforms.

Did he say 'Bismillah'?

Some could not believe that Ronaldo whispered 'Bismillah,' and they questioned the truth of the matter on their accounts.

Widespread celebration

Many Muslim followers celebrated the moment, highlighting it from various angles.

Will he convert to Islam?

For his part, an account named Khaled Al-Kuwari expressed hope that Ronaldo would embrace Islam, writing, 'Oh God, guide him to Islam,' while another wrote, 'I ask God to guide his heart to Islam.'

Not the first time

In contrast, an account named Mustafa reminded everyone that the moment is not new, and that the Don is accustomed to saying 'Bismillah' before shooting for his team Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.