Pepe Becomes Oldest Player to Feature in European Championship as Portugal Wins Opener
LEIPZIG, Germany (AP) — Portugal defender Pepe set a new record as the oldest player to feature in a European Championship, playing a crucial role in his team's 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic on Tuesday.
At 41 years and 113 days old, Pepe surpassed the previous record held by Hungary goalkeeper Gábor Király, who was 40 years and 86 days old when he played against Belgium in the Euro 2016 round of 16.
This milestone comes just days after Spain’s Lamine Yamal became the youngest player to participate in the tournament.
Pepe, originally from Brazil, made his debut for Portugal in November 2007 under Brazilian coach Luiz Felipe Scolari while still playing for Real Madrid. Over his career, he has made 138 appearances for Portugal, scoring eight goals, receiving 25 yellow cards, and earning one red card during Portugal’s opening game at the 2014 World Cup against Germany.
Pepe has now played in 20 matches across five European Championships, a record second only to his international teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo, 39, made his tournament debut at Euro 2004, where Portugal reached the final. On Tuesday, he became the first player to feature in six European Championships.
For more on Euro 2024, visit [AP Euro 2024](https://apnews.com/hub/euro-2024).
CIARÁN FAHEY
Fahey is a Berlin-based reporter for The Associated Press, covering sports in Germany and beyond.
Post a Comment