PORTO star Pepe proved that age is just a number with a sensational sprint during Portugal’s Nations League clash with the Czech Republic.
The 39-year-old defender started for Fernando Santos’ side on Thursday against the Czechs at the Jose Alvalade Stadium and played the full 90 minutes despite his advanced age.
Porto star Pepe proved age is just a number during Portugal vs Czech Republic Credit: Twitter
Pepe ran the length of the pitch despite his advanced age of 39 years old Credit: Twitter
Pepe played the full 90 minutes and helped Portugal beat the Czech Republic Credit: Getty And fans were convinced Santos is absolutely right to still trust the centre-back, who will be 40 in February, as it was around the hour-mark when he showed an unreal level of fitness.
The ex-Real Madrid star moved forward to help his team with a set-piece until the hosts were dispossessed following a loose pass by Raphael Guerreiro.
The visitors initiated a dangerous counter-attack that saw them outnumber the Portuguese defence by three to two.
That was when Pepe showed what a beast he still is as he put together a stunning run from the opposing area all the way to his in just 10 seconds to help Portugal even the odds.
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Ronaldo strips down to shorts in Portugal training ahead of Czech Republic clash That led to Vaclav Jurecka having no other option but to shoot from a tight corner on the right and miss a major chance to beat Diogo Costa.
Fans were left in awe of the Portuguese legend’s pace as they believe he set the bar for the team.
One supporter wrote: “Pepe. 40 years. AN EXAMPLE!!!”
Another posted: “He is simply an extraordinary player.”
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A third wrote: “Our captain the machine.”
Pepe helped Portugal win 2-0 thanks to goals by Manchester City star Joao Cancelo and Goncalo Guedes.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
