Pepe breaks Champions League record

Portugal Former Real Madrid defender Pepe became the first player over 40 to score in the Champions League.

In the 90+1 minute of the match against Royal Antwerp in the fourth round of Group F on the evening of November 7, Pepe headed the ball into the near corner from a pass from his teammate on the left wing, sealing a 2-0 victory for FC Porto.

The former Real Madrid defender thus became the oldest player, and also the first over 40 to score in the Champions League. At the time of his goal, Pepe was 40 years and 254 days old. He broke the old record of 38 years and 59 days held by Francesco Totti, who scored for Roma in the CSKA Moscow match on November 25, 2014. The next three players are: Ryan Giggs (37 years and 290 days, Man Utd - Benfica match on September 14, 2011), Filippo Inzaghi (37 years and 87 days, Milan - Real Madrid match on November 3, 2010) and Javier Zanetti (37 years and 72 days, Inter - Tottenham match on October 20, 2010).

Pepe (left) celebrates a goal with teammates in the match FC Porto 2-0 Royal Antwerp in the fourth round of Group H of the Champions League on the evening of November 7, at Dragao Stadium. Photo: FC Porto — Pepe (left) celebrates a goal with teammates in the match FC Porto 2-0 Royal Antwerp in the fourth round of Group H of the Champions League on the evening of November 7, at Dragao Stadium. Photo: *FC Porto*

Pepe began his career in 2001, at Portuguese club Maritimo. He played his first spell at FC Porto from 2004 to 2007, before returning in 2019. Pepe is also a Real Madrid legend, with three Champions League and three La Liga titles.

This season, the 40-year-old midfielder has continued to prove his ability with eight appearances in all competitions. In the previous three seasons, he helped FC Porto win eight titles including two Portuguese championships, three National Cups, one League Cup and two Portuguese Super Cups.

Pepe is also a star in the Portuguese national team. He participated in Euro 2008, 2012, 2016, 2021, World Cup 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and was part of the golden generation that won Euro 2016 and Nations League 2019. At Euro 2008, 2012 and 2016, Pepe was in the typical squad.

FC Porto are currently second in Group H of the Champions League, with nine points from four games. They are level on points and goal difference with leaders Barca, but have a head-to-head advantage. Meanwhile, Shakhtar Donetsk are third with six points, while Royal Antwerp have no points. FC Porto will next play away to Barca.

Thanh Quy (according to Opta )

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