If the Portuguese team wants to return to a UEFA Euro final, they will have to do so without one of their top performers.
As team lineups for the semi-final clash between Portugal and Wales emerged, Pepe's absence stole all the headlines. Real Madrid's center back was the cornerstone of Fernando Santos' defense, and the Portuguese crew will have to make do without him.
Pepe's form during the tournament was absolutely superb. He led almost every defensive category for A Seleçao Das Quinas, and he managed to keep his act together after being booked during the second game of the tournament.
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Here's how fans and experts reacted to the news.
No Pepe in the lineup today. He'd started and played every minute of 14 straight EURO games for Portugal. #POR https://t.co/f2YNUb8PqK
— Paul Carr (@PCarrESPN) July 6, 2016
Pepe injured? RIPPPPP
— Chu (@ChuBoi) July 6, 2016
Damn no Pepe tonight.. Big blow
— aa9skillz (@aa9skillz) July 6, 2016
No Pepe no party
— MisterChip (Alexis) (@2010MisterChip) July 6, 2016
Pepe out for Portugal. Irreplaceable. No one in football feels more pain in his face when they have been tapped on the shoulder #POR
— Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) July 6, 2016
In Pepe's absence, Portugal's centre backs are 34 and 37 year olds. Bale will have a field day
— Messi World (@MessiWorId) July 6, 2016
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