Baltimore Ravens kicker Tyler Loop channeled soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo by performing the iconic "Siu" celebration after a dramatic game-winning field goal. Loop kicked a 56-yard field goal as time expired on Sunday, securing a 34-31 victory over the Dallas Cowboys at the historic Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The "Siu" celebration, famous worldwide from Ronaldo's exploits on the soccer pitch, involves a jump, a mid-air spin, and a shout of "Siuuu" upon landing. The Brazilian crowd at the Maracanã enthusiastically repeated the celebration back to Loop after his clutch kick.
Loop revealed that the celebratory gesture was a last-minute decision, inspired by a teammate. "Our number was called, and Nick (Moore) and Ryan and the guys up front, they all did their job, so I can do mine," Loop stated after the game, expressing pride in his team's performance. He also mentioned that teammate Ryan Eckley had initially suggested a soccer-style knee slide.
The game-winning kick came after a tense final minute. Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey had tied the game at 31 with a 23-yard field goal with just seven seconds remaining. However, Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson orchestrated a quick drive, completing a 27-yard pass to Zay Flowers and calling a timeout with only one second left on the clock, setting the stage for Loop's decisive kick.
This marked the NFL's third game played in Brazil and its first ever in Rio de Janeiro, drawing an announced attendance of 72,792 spectators. The Maracanã Stadium, renowned for its soccer history, hosted its inaugural American football game.
Loop's successful kick was particularly meaningful after a difficult moment in the previous season's finale. He missed a 44-yard field goal that ultimately cost the Ravens a playoff spot, as they lost 26-24 to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Reflecting on the team's journey this season, Loop emphasized their resilience. "One thing we talked about was being on one accord. There was adversity, and then we went and responded, and we delivered, and it was awesome," he said.
He further elaborated on the importance of team camaraderie, highlighting the bonds forged through shared experiences and challenges. "That's the most special thing about this sport, the fellowship and the togetherness that you can build with those guys," Loop commented. "It's a blast to see all this come through a lot of adversity between last season and now."


