James Rodriguez has heaped praise on his former Real Madrid team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo after the pair reunited during a goalless World Cup group-stage match between Colombia and Portugal in Miami.
Emotional reunion in Miami
Ronaldo and Rodriguez shared an emotional embrace as Colombia and Portugal played out a 0-0 draw in their World Cup clash in Miami. The result meant Colombia topped Group K with seven points, while Portugal advanced as runners-up with five points.
The two captains, who forged a strong bond during their time together at Real Madrid starting in 2014, were seen exchanging warm words before kick-off. Per Marca, Rodriguez initiated the exchange by calling Ronaldo “handsome”, to which the Portuguese replied, “Brother, how are you?” They shared a quick hug and wished each other well before taking to the pitch. The cameras also captured them engaged in a friendly conversation in the tunnel at half-time.
A lasting Real Madrid brotherhood
Following the final whistle, Rodriguez spoke to ESPN reporters in the mixed zone to elaborate on the touching encounter.
The pair enjoyed significant success during their shared years in the Spanish capital, and the Colombian was keen to emphasise the depth of their relationship. Despite Ronaldo now plying his trade in Saudi Arabia and Rodriguez playing his club football in Minnesota, distance has not diminished their mutual respect. “We have spoken,” Rodriguez explained. “He is a great friend from when we played at Real Madrid, and he is also a great person. We built a great friendship, I was always at his house.”
