Close-up of Pepe, 41, ‘destroyed’ Marcus Thuram, 26, when chasing to the end in the 90+1 minute despite Portugal’s loss to France

The veteran Portuguese general made fans admire his physical strength.

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Portugalia - Francja: wynik, relacja, wideo | Ćwierćfinał EURO 2024 -  Goal.pl

After losing to France on penalties, Portuguese warrior Pepe shed tears.

The former Real Madrid star is one of the best players on the Portuguese side in this year’s EURO. Therefore, after many efforts but not achieving the expected results, Pepe will certainly have a feeling of regret.

Portugal - Francia, en directo | La selección francesa tumba a la lusa en  la tanda de penaltis y se medirá con España en las semifinales | Eurocopa  Alemania 2024 | EL PAÍS

Pepe brings the ultimate challenge to the stars of the French national team. Even until the last minute, he was still ready to race with Marcus Thuram to save the home team.

[FOX Soccer] Marcus Thuram vs. 41-year-old Pepe

The situation took place after France stole the ball in their own half and launched a quick counterattack.

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Portugal 0 France 0: Penalties decide cagey quarter-final as Mbappe  progresses and Ronaldo goes out – The Briefing - The Athletic

With Pepe being 41 years old this year and having to play throughout Portugal’s matches since the group stage, it was thought that Thuram could easily win in the fast race.

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But Pepe didn’t let that happen. He followed his opponent closely until his own half.

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Thuram continued to rely on his speed to penetrate the penalty area.

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The Inter Milan player overcome Pepe in this situation.

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However, he didn’t seem to expect that Pepe would chase him before making a tackle, causing the French team’s opportunity to slip away.

At the age of 41, Pepe truly destroyed a Thuram who was only 26 and in the prime of his career. Not only showing experience, Pepe also showed a strong physical foundation. Therefore, fans will not be disappointed when this name is absent from this year’s EURO semi-finals.