Colombia 0-0 Portugal Player Ratings: Diogo Costa masterclass denies Colombia deserved victory | OneFootball

Just when it seemed Portugal might click on in this World Cup, a tenacious, energetic, and inventive Colombia battered the Seleção in the withering Miami heat. Though Portugal had its moments – especially Bruno Fernandes in the first half – Colombia only got better as the match progressed and Diogo Costa answered the call in heroic style. With Croatia waiting in the Round of 32, Portugal’s lacklustre effort reignited fierce questioning of its team resilience, tactical orientation, and individual desire.

Starters

Diogo Costa – 9/10, PortuGOAL.net’s Man of the Match

A massive performance. Made six crucial saves in a match where nothing ahead of him went as planned. Incredible one-handed denial of Jhon Córdoba’s goal-bound effort in the first half. Not for the first time in his short career, Costa was at his very best when the rest of the squad seemed disinterested and overrun.

Nuno Mendes continued his indifferent run of form against Colombia

Nuno Mendes – 6

It just has not been Nuno’s tournament thus far. Three key passes and 91% passing, but successfully completed only 1/3 dribbles and may well have deserved to be withdrawn much earlier. So frequently Portugal’s best player in the last 2 years, even he cannot escape the performance malaise which has descended on the Portugal camp.

Renato Veiga – 7

Difficult to rate because early in the first half he was bodied by Cordoba on several long balls over the top. He showed his resilience, however, by winning most the aerial duels which followed, making 6 clearances and 4 vital interceptions. On the ball even more often than Vitinha, which speaks volumes. Though not perfect, Veiga was one of two outfield players who deserved to leave the pitch with pride intact. His CB partner was the other.

Rúben Dias – 7.5

Match high for aerial challenges won (3) and clearances (7). Denied a certain goalscoring opportunity late in the second half with a crucial header. Completed 50/54 pass attempts and has been a proper anchor for Portugal since returning from injury.

João Cancelo – 4.5

Dispossessed after lingering on the ball far too long, an opportunity which Colombia mercifully wasted. No dribbles, no shots, no key passes and only 22 touches. Rightfully withdrawn for Dalot at halftime.

Rúben Neves – 5.5

Would be rated lower were it not for his goalline clearance. Only 21 touches, a couple clearances, and two errant shots in 45 minutes.

Vitinha – 4.5

Like PSG teammate Nuno Mendes, the little magician has struggled mightily to conjure anything worth writing home about. Some have suggested it is Martínez’s tactics which prevent him and the rest of the 2x Champions League winning cohort from reaching their best form. No killer ball, and often lies too deep to get in threatening positions. Far too safe during the group stage. Will he catch fire before it is too late?

Bruno Fernandes – 5

How is it that the same man who broke the EPL’s all-time single season assists record could be so bland? Take away the first half shot on goal, which he absolutely should have buried, and there is very little to suggest his true ability. Insipid and unimaginative when he should be his side’s leading creative talent.

João Félix – 6.5

Probably his side’s most threatening player until Leão came on. That said, all three of his shots were off target including an attempted header from Neto’s well-placed second half cross. Put in some good defensive work. Just needs a goal to boost his confidence.

Pedro Neto – 4.5

Aside from a great cross to Félix in the second half, Neto was well-shackled by the Colombian defense. His close control was also just poor. No shots…….again.

Ronaldo struggles against Colombia's tenacious defense

Cristiano Ronaldo – 4

A complete reverse compared to the Uzbekistan match. Left on for the full 90 in oppressive conditions and could not match Colombia’s dynamism. His touch let him down on multiple occasions. Portugal’s least effective passer, and only one tame free kick attempt on goal to show for it.

Substitutes

Diogo Dalot – 6.5

Rudely dispossessed Diaz as Colombia ratcheted up the pressure. Placed a shot just wide and at least looked hungry for a better result.

João Neves – 5.5

“És tu, João?” Worked hard and made some good interceptions but confirmed just how inept Portugal were when even he gave the ball away cheaply in midfield. No shots or key passes. Hung on for dear life like the rest of the squad late in the second half.

Samú Costa – 5

Did just enough to keep Colombia from breaking through. Many had been calling for his inclusion to inject some steel into central midfield. Unfortunately came on when Colombia were taking over the game.

Rafael Leão – 6

Made several hard runs down the left wing completing more dribbles in 20 minutes than any other Portugal player. Wasted a glorious chance to direct a simple pass across the face of goal. Otherwise just did not see the ball enough with only 18 touches.

Matheus Nunes - NR