Portugal's Pepe Blocks Ronaldo From Breaking Record As He Makes Euro History

Photo: Instagram/Cristiano Ronaldo

In an exciting turn of events, Portugal's veteran defender Pepe has become the oldest player in European Championship history at 41 years old. This milestone came during Portugal's 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in their Group F opener.

Cristiano Ronaldo, another star from Portugal, was on the brink of breaking a 24-year record held by Lothar Matthaus, who played in Euro 2000 at the age of 39 years and 91 days. However, Pepe's appearance in the match at 41 years and 113 days took that honor, making him the tournament's oldest player. He surpassed Gabor Kiraly's record, who played at 40 years and 86 days for Hungary in 2016.

While Ronaldo, at 39 years and 133 days, still has a chance to become the oldest goalscorer in Euro history, he faces competition from Pepe. The current record is held by Ivica Vastic, who scored at 38 years and 257 days for Austria in 2008.

Photo: Instagram/Cristiano Ronaldo

On a brighter note for Ronaldo, his appearance against the Czech Republic marked another historic achievement: he is now the first player to participate in six European Championships. Ronaldo had already set a record by appearing in five Euros by 2020, which was later matched by Croatia's Luka Modric.

Ronaldo has also extended his record for the most games played in the tournament, now totaling 26. He has scored in each of his five previous Euros since 2004 and aims to extend this streak in Germany. With 14 goals, he holds the record for most goals in Euro history and hopes to win another Golden Boot.

Despite not scoring against the Czech Republic, Ronaldo will look to change his fortunes against Turkey on Saturday.

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Source: Talk Sports 

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