PALM BEACH — The clock struck 8 PM in Florida as the Portuguese national team bus rolled through the gates of the luxurious Four Seasons Resort, battling a relentless mosquito assault and the humid air. Outside, a hundred fans eagerly awaited a glimpse; inside, photographers' lenses captured the arrival of the Portuguese armada.
Roberto Martínez was the first to emerge, sporting a relaxed smile before kicking off the RD Congo operation. Among the players, Nuno Mendes and Gonçalo Ramos led the charge with focused expressions. Vitinha's playful demeanor followed, along with Bruno Fernandes' camaraderie with young João Neves, who broke protocol with a friendly wave to the journalists.
In stark contrast to the relaxed air of João Félix and Rafael Leão, the duo of Rúben Dias and Diogo Costa adopted the serious demeanor of those already in battle mode. Capping off the arrivals, Cristiano Ronaldo commanded all attention: confident, with a slight smile and a prolonged wave. Let the games begin.