Football News Update: Euro 2024, Champions League, FIFA World Cup, and More
In a historic moment, Pepe has become the oldest player in European Championship history at the age of 41 years and 113 days. The veteran Portugal defender denied his teammate Cristiano Ronaldo the chance to break a 24-year-old record during their team’s 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in their Group F opener at Euro 2024, which was broadcast live on talkSPORT.
Ronaldo, who is participating in his 11th major tournament, was aiming to become the oldest outfield player to feature in the European Championships, a record previously held by German legend Lothar Matthaus at Euro 2000. However, Pepe’s inclusion in Roberto Martinez’s starting lineup has now made him the tournament’s oldest player, surpassing the record set by Hungary’s Gabor Kiraly in 2016.
“Despite missing out on the record, Ronaldo, at 39 years and 133 days old, is now in a battle with Pepe for another Euros milestone – the oldest goalscorer in the competition’s history. The current record is held by former Austria international Ivica Vastic, who scored at the age of 38 years and 257 days during Euro 2008.”
In positive news for Ronaldo, his appearance against the Czech Republic has seen him become the first player to feature in six European Championships. He had previously created history by being the first player to appear in five Euros finals, before Croatia’s Luka Modric equalled him. However, Ronaldo is now the sole record holder, having featured in 11 major tournaments overall.
Ronaldo has also extended his record of appearing in the most Euros games, with 26 to his name. The five-time Champions League winner has found the back of the net in each of his last five Euros appearances since Euro 2004, and he will be looking to add to his record of 14 goals at the tournament, as he aims to win a second consecutive Golden Boot award.
Despite drawing a blank against the Czech Republic, Ronaldo and his Portugal side will be hoping for better luck when they face Turkey on Saturday.
🔗 Source