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Portugal player ratings vs Colombia: Underwhelming Cristiano Ronaldo and team fortunate to leave Miami with a draw after late Colombian surge

Portugal and Colombia made history in Miami, though not in a way either side would have hoped. In one of the most expensive group stage fixtures of the tournament at a sweltering Miami Stadium, Los Cafeteros recorded the first 0-0 draw in their century-long World Cup history — and Portugal had plenty to answer for after failing to convert several clear chances against their South American rivals.

Reports indicated that the cheapest tickets at Miami Stadium cost around $2,600 on resale markets, ranking it among the priciest group fixtures. Many Portuguese fans will likely feel short-changed after this performance.

Despite boasting the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, and Pedro Neto, A Seleção never fully clicked in attack, effectively surrendering their hopes of topping Group K to Colombia. In truth, Portugal were fortunate not to lose.

The opening half was relatively balanced, with Colombia edging possession 55-45. In the 39th minute, Fernandes produced Portugal’s best opportunity of the first period, forcing a sharp save from Camilo Vargas with a close-range effort. Early in the second half, a defensive blunder from Colombia gifted Portugal a two-on-one break involving João Félix and Ronaldo against Jhon Lucumí, but the veteran forward mistimed his run and was flagged offside.

After that, it was all Colombia, backed by a passionate crowd. Los Cafeteros registered 11 shots in the second half, three on target, and nearly broke the deadlock when James Rodríguez unleashed a powerful long-range strike that deflected off a Portuguese defender.

In stoppage time, Davinson Sánchez appeared to have finally secured victory, heading past Diogo Costa — who was otherwise outstanding with six crucial saves — only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. VAR confirmed the narrow decision, denying Colombia at the death.

Consequently, Roberto Martínez’s side escaped South Florida with a point and a second-place finish in the group. However, the Portugal manager faces tough questions after a display marked by wastefulness in attack, defensive lapses, and sheer fortune.

Goalkeeper & Defence

Diogo Costa (9/10):

Clearly the standout performer, producing save after save to keep Portugal alive. Without the 26-year-old, Portugal almost certainly would have lost and possibly finished level on points with DR Congo in Group K.

Joao Cancelo (6/10):

Delivered an average performance before being unexpectedly substituted at halftime. Energetic on the right flank and tidy in passing, but lacked penetration.

Ruben Dias (7/10):

Appeared a step behind the pace for most of the match, yet produced a vital headed block to deny Luis Suarez from point-blank range in the 90th minute.

Renato Veiga (8/10):

Impressive throughout, playing a major role in restraining Colombia’s relentless second-half pressure.

Nuno Mendes (7/10):

More effective going forward, completing six passes into the final third, while also contributing four defensive recoveries.

Midfield

Ruben Neves (6/10):

Surprisingly preferred to Joao Neves in the starting lineup, a decision Martínez reversed after the break. Worked hard and saw plenty of the ball but lacked precision and failed to effectively link with Fernandes or Ronaldo.

Vitinha (8/10):

Outstanding in distribution, completing all 54 of his passes — one of the highest tallies of the match. Created a notable chance and covered immense ground.

Bruno Fernandes (6/10):

Quiet for most of the match, only making an impact in the final 20 minutes. His passing accuracy was solid, completing all five of his long balls, but he struggled in the attacking third. Missed a major first-half chance and could have scored twice. Made up somewhat with defensive contributions late on.

Attack

Joao Felix (6/10):

Set up what could have been the game’s decisive moment, only for Ronaldo to stray offside. Worked hard defensively with three recoveries, though his limited pace constrained his threat from wide areas.

Pedro Neto (6/10):

Displayed pace but lacked directness when in possession, failing to make the most of his opportunities.

Cristiano Ronaldo (5/10):

In his prime, the Portuguese legend would have relished this matchup against Colombia’s compact defence. At 41, however, his diminished pace was evident. Struggled to influence attacking build-up and squandered several clear chances — at least two of which should have been goals. A night to forget for the captain.

Subs & Manager

Diogo Dalot (7/10):

Delivered a solid 45-minute shift, contributing effectively at both ends of the pitch.

Joao Neves (5/10):

Many questioned Martínez for benching the PSG midfielder, but his cameo offered little justification for a starting role despite his work rate.

Samu (6/10):

Introduced to provide fresh energy and performed reliably.

Rafael Leao (7/10):

The AC Milan winger impressed in just 20 minutes, completing a game-high three dribbles and looking dangerous each time he received the ball.

Matheus Nunes (NA):

Came on in the 90th minute with minimal time to influence proceedings.

Roberto Martinez (5/10):

Questionable team selection, and he still seems uncertain about how best to utilise Ronaldo. Portugal’s lack of attacking directness remains a concern. The manager must find a system that maximises his squad’s talent — perhaps by taking inspiration from Lionel Scaloni’s successful Argentina setup.