The naturalized Portuguese Brazilian did not hide his luck after winning the Champions League at Juventus
Defender Pepe had a spectacular performance and was decisive for Porto to qualify against Juventus for the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
After the game, in an interview with TNT Sports , praised the “humility” of the Portuguese team that played much of the game with one less, and emphasized the team’s defensive work.
“It’s very satisfying (qualifying) when we work like we did. We are a very compact team. We had the humility to lower the lines because we respect Juventus. It’s a great team, full of great players. The team knew how to suffer when they had to suffer, but always with the goal of scoring a goal because we knew it qualifies us. Our team should be congratulated for the work they have done today, ”he said loftily.
Asked if it postage could be giants in the Champions Pepe asked feet on the ground.
“We are doing very well Champions LeagueOur group stage skimped on excellence. Now the game moves on. The important thing is to be humble and acknowledge when the other team is on top. Lines and we work as a team, ”he said.
“This is the identity of Porto. It is a team of determination and passion. We players should always feel that. When it is, it is nice to see a humble team work together. That’s what happened today. “he added. .
The naturalized Portuguese Brazilian also lamented the fact that Cristiano Ronaldo, his good friend from the times of Real Madrid and Portugal, was again eliminated early in the Champions League.
“Yes, it’s a shame … He’s a person for whom I have great affection. But like in this game, only one can win,” he said.
Finally, Pepe was asked about his impressive vitality. At the age of 38, he gave a show at the Juventus Stadium and commanded Porto’s defensive line in grueling extensions.
Born in Alagoas (a state of Brazil in the northeast of the country), he revealed that the secret comes from there.
“It’s a lot of northeastern shell!” he joked with a laugh.