Ghana forward Osman Bukari says he did not disrespect Cristiano Ronaldo after copying his "SIU" celebration after scoring a consolation goal in their 3-2 defeat to Portugal on Thursday.
After the goalless first half, Captain Ronaldo opened the scoring for Portugal via the penalty spot after he fouled in the box by Ghana's defender Mohammed Salisu.
Ghana improved after the goal and scored the equalised through skipper Andre Ayew from close range.
But Portugal responded with two goals in two minutes to seal the points - Joao Felix converting a delightfully clipped finish and substitute Rafael Leao coolly stroking in just seconds after coming on.
Osman Bukari headed in a late consolation for Ghana and there could have been real drama in the ninth minute of stoppage time.
After scoring, Bukari mimicked Ronaldo's trademark celebration to the delight of the fans at the stadium.
He was criticised after the celebration but has come out defend himself.
"I have noticed my celebration today has generated comments claiming I was disrespectful towards Ronaldo This is incorrect. I was overcome by the emotion of the moment of scoring for my country on my World Cup debut leading to my celebration. My upbringing doesn’t permit me to be disrespectful to elders let alone one of my idols. Thanks for your support and we focus on our next game," Bukari posted on his twitter page.
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The defeat means Black Stars are bottom of Group H after Uruguay and South Korea played out a goalless draw earlier on Thursday.
The Black Stars will now switch their attention to their attention to the match against South Korea on Monday before taking on Uruguay on December 2 at the Education City stadium.