Cristiano Ronaldo. Image: X Dulal Dey, Miami Success has a way of changing everything. That is why champions often say there is only one cure for disappointment: success, success, and more success.

Take Cristiano Ronaldo’s case. After Portugal’s opening World Cup match against DR Congo, where he failed to score, criticism came pouring in from every corner of the football world. Pundits claimed the 41-year-old was finished.

Questions were raised about his place in the team. Stories emerged suggesting he was isolated in the dressing room, that younger players disliked his perceived arrogance, and that despite wearing the captain’s armband, he no longer commanded the respect of his teammates. The accusations were endless.

Then came two goals from Ronaldo and five from Portugal, against Uzbekistan. Almost overnight, the narrative changed completely, including within the Portuguese media itself. The same outlets that had questioned him were now hailing him as an exemplary leader.

A role model for younger players on and off the pitch. A captain whose influence extends far beyond scoring goals. Portugal, led by Ronaldo, are due to arrive in Miami on Friday afternoon ahead of their match against Colombia.

With Brazil, Portugal and Argentina all descending upon the city, Miami has taken on the atmosphere of a football carnival. Add to that the fact that Miami is Lionel Messi’s adopted home, and the excitement has reached another level. Yet, according to officials, the most extensive security arrangements have been put in place for Ronaldo.

Following his two-goal performance against Uzbekistan, Ronaldo has once again become the centre of attention. Fans want a glimpse of him. They want a photograph, an autograph, a moment.

FIFA officials in Miami admitted that additional security measures had to be introduced specifically because of the extraordinary demand surrounding the Portuguese superstar. Ironically, all of this is happening in Messi’s city. The surge in interest has also pushed ticket prices for Portugal’s match to extraordinary levels.

After the DR Congo game, Ronaldo had stood in front of television cameras and vented his frustration. “When I play badly, suddenly I’m old. I’m finished.

I’ve answered everything on the pitch.” That single statement revealed just how much pressure he had been carrying. The criticism had clearly affected him. He struggled to accept the way sections of the media had portrayed him after one disappointing performance.

At Portugal’s training base in Florida, Ronaldo spent part of the day doing light stretching exercises and taking an ice bath. Observers also noticed him spending considerable time interacting with younger members of the squad. Later, when coach Roberto Martínez called a team meeting to discuss plans for the Colombia match, Ronaldo reportedly spoke at length himself, encouraging and motivating the younger players.

Portuguese journalist Nuno, who is in Miami covering the tournament, admitted he was surprised by what he saw. “For years, we have looked at Ronaldo as a superstar. But during this World Cup, we are seeing a different side of him,” he said.

“He feels less like a leader and more like a friend. He’s constantly talking to the younger players, helping them, motivating them. The last time we saw this version of Ronaldo was during Portugal’s European Championship-winning campaign.

Even during matches, he is often discussing tactical ideas with the coaching staff from the touchline. This is the Ronaldo we wanted to see.” It is remarkable how success can alter perceptions. Martínez, however, has stood firmly by Ronaldo from the very beginning.

After the poor display against DR Congo, when sections of the Portuguese media demanded that Ronaldo be dropped from the starting eleven, just as had happened during the 2022 World Cup, Martínez refused to entertain the idea. He publicly backed his captain and made it clear that Ronaldo would start the next match. The faith was rewarded.

Now, after Portugal’s convincing victory, Martínez has gone even further in his praise. “Cristiano is an asset for this team,” the coach said. “His tactical understanding of the game is comparable to that of any established coach.” But what exactly has changed?

Is it simply the two goals and a victory? Many Portuguese journalists believe there is more to it. Perhaps Ronaldo understands that this is his final opportunity to win the World Cup.

Perhaps he knows that personal records matter less now than collective success. That may explain why he appears more relaxed, more approachable and more invested in helping those around him. Football experts often say that the true strength of a dressing room is revealed during difficult moments.

When results are good, everything feels like a honeymoon. The real test comes when things are not going your way. Follow for latest sports news The post appeared first on .