Pepe has point to prove

Portuguese defence not the finished article

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 16th June 2008

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Pepe believes his defensive partnership with Ricardo Carvalho cannot be branded as the best in the world.

The Real Madrid ace and his Chelsea counterpart have formed a virtually impenetrable unit at the heart of the Portuguese back four, drawing plaudits from around the world.

Brazilian-born Pepe has adapted to the international arena with ease, while Carvalho has long been regarded as one of the finest exponents of his chosen position.

However, despite the compliments which have come their way since Euro 2008 began, Pepe believes that they can only be regarded as the complete partnership once they have got their hands on some silverware.

Winners

"For us to be considered the best of the tournament or the best in the world, we're going to have to win something together," he said.

"Ricardo is a great defender but it is not only with him that I have a good partnership.

"I have no problem pairing up with Bruno Alves or Fernando Meira."

Portugal are safely through to the last eight of the European Championship, but have seen their strength in depth questioned in some quarters following a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland on Sunday.

Luiz Felipe Scolari fielded a reserve side against the co-hosts, but none of the second string did their chances of progression into the first team any favours.

Rhythm

A lacklustre display was so far removed from their opening two performances that Scolari is expected to revert back to his tried and trusted stars for their quarter-final showdown.

Who they will be facing in that game remains unclear, but Pepe feels that the squad is in better shape for having allowed so many key men to rest during the Swiss contest.

"The most important thing was to give match rhythm to those who had not played in the other matches," he said.

"The quarter-final will be decided by small details so it's important for us all to be prepared to give our best on Thursday."