In a world where strikers dominate the headlines, Pepe, the legendary Brazilian-born Portuguese footballer, built his kingdom on the defensive line. However, contrary to today’s chess-like defensive play, the 41-year-old centre-back had the grit and fire of the old defenders, plus a flawless technique.
After a long-lasting and bright career, Pepe announced his retirement in August, receiving a wave of praise and tributes. After all, he’s the all-time best centre-back to defend Portugal. Here’s Pepe’s legacy to Portugal and world football.
Betting on Talent Football
Pepe’s way to the top started rough when he arrived in Portugal with something like EUR 5 in his pocket. He recollects that when he got to the airport, he had to decide between buying a sandwich or calling his mom to tell her everything was fine. It wouldn’t take long for him to leave behind his financial struggles and join some of the strongest clubs in Europe, like Porto and Real Madrid.
Fans got used to seeing Pepe’s name while betting live on 10bet Canada, as he was the main player of countless decisive games. During his career, Pepe won the Champions League three times, two FIFA Club World Cups (all while he was defending Real Madrid), and over a dozen trophies for his other clubs. Pepe played for Real Madrid for 10 seasons and defended Portugal on 141 occasions.
Rising to Stardom
Pepe premiered in Portuguese football with the Marítimo, from Madeira. However, his career really took flight after he moved to FC Porto in 2004, and he won two league titles in three seasons. At Porto, Pepe refined his gameplay without losing his characteristic grit, turning him into the world-class defender fans know today.
He moved to Real Madrid in 2007 to win the biggest club football titles. In Santiago Bernabeu, Pepe built a reputation for relentlessness that inspired the entire defensive line. Indeed, he became a legend there, winning 15 titles, some of which are the most important of his career.
Pepe returned to Porto in 2019 after playing for top-flight Turkish club Besiktas. Despite his age, he never lost his strength and edge, which earned him 212 yellow cards and 17 red cards. He demonstrated it just before retiring, becoming the oldest player to compete in a Champions League in 2023.
Controversial Moments
Pepe’s career also had its fair share of controversial moments. At times, his extremely physical gameplay became borderline brutal, not always delivering the intended results. In 2009, he was defending Real Madrid against Getafe when he tackled an opponent and kicked him twice while on the ground.
This sparked reactions from other Getafe players, whom Pepe also confronted, resulting in a huge brawl. The defender not only got red-carded but also received a 10-match ban. He also stamped on Messi’s hand in the Real Madrid vs Barcelona match in 2012, although he claims it was unintentional. Nevertheless, Pepe’s fiery and bold style will be sorely missed on the pitch and by countless football fans worldwide.
