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BERLIN, GERMANY | Xinhua | Veteran Pepe weeping inconsolably in the arms of Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal’s Euro 2024 quarterfinal defeat to France might tell the story of two icons reaching the final stages of their national team career.
While 39-year-old Ronaldo a few days ago announced that this would be his last European Championships after 30 games and a record 14 goals, Pepe broke age-related records.
41 years and 130 days old at the tournament start, he is the oldest player ever to compete at the continental major.
The Porto defender’s club future might be as uncertain as his national team career. While his contract with Porto has expired, he announced some time ago to end his Portugal career when “Cristiano does.”
Superlatives seem to run out when it comes to the achievements of both.
Ronaldo stands for a flood of trophies and titles such as five Champions Leagues, and several domestic titles in England, Spain and Italy, as well as Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League.
Defender Pepe, to some extent, has entered the exclusive circle of superstars, but far from the glittering limelight Ronaldo enjoyed, despite three Champions League wins coming along with the Euro 2016 title.
The Athletic called the veteran “Portugal’s ageless wonder” as he is said to dedicate every second of every day to his job as a professional footballer.
German outlet FAZ called Pepe a tamed monster, due to his tireless determination in his country’s defence.
In the dark hour of the 2024 exit, Pepe asked for time to make up his mind regarding his international future. “It isn’t the right time to talk about my future in the team,” Pepe said, adding, “I guess after a few days, I will have the opportunity to think about it.”
As for 212-cap Ronaldo, football seems a family affair. Mother Dolores, stepfather Jose Andrade and sisters Katia and Elma rushed into the Portugal locker room to offer support after the shootout defeat.
A souvenir photo together with France star Kylian Mbappe and Pepe went into one of their social media postings, with Katia stating: “No matter if I cry or laugh, the most important are the emotions I experienced.”
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez explained Pepe’s tears as those of disappointment, “as it is hard to accept after a performance like that.” One can’t speak of farewell tears after 141 caps, he emphasized.
The coach said everyone can be proud to have two such men around living their passion for football. ■
