Real Madrid star hailed his Portugal teammates as warriors, following Euro 2016 triumph
Real Madrid defender Pepe has hailed his Portugal teammates as warriors, after their resilient display against France in the final of Euro 2016.
Portugal were the outsiders to win the European Champions, with France were the favorites to lift the trophy on the home soil.
Portugal deserves Euro 2016 success says Cristiano Ronaldo
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But, Fernando Santos’s men beat the odds on their way to their first International triumph, and Pepe leads from the front following unfortunate Ronaldo‘s exit in the early proceedings of the game.
Real Madrid man provided command and defensive stability to keep France at the bay, and Portugal’s hard work was paid off when Eder netted the winner at the end of extra time.
We knew we were on the pitch representing an entire nation, Portugal,” the centre-back said after the match.
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“It’s a beautiful country, with wonderful people. We believed in the people who taught us many things, with humility, union, sacrifice and desire. This victory is for everyone!
“It was difficult to be without our best player [Ronaldo], the man who from one moment to another could make the difference, but God gives battles to the best soldiers and we were warriors on the pitch. We said we were going to win for Cristiano and we did!
“We defended and attacked well. There was a lot of pressure, but we wanted to win for everyone who came to see us.
“I want to give my thanks to everyone in the group, the staff and the Portuguese people. It was an extraordinary match, our best of the tournament.
“The [Portuguese] federation has worked well in recent years and [its work has been] very positive. We can rely on young players but also the more experienced ones.
“We’ve managed to write an important page in the history of our country.”