Porto captain Pepe could be facing a two-year ban following a 40-man brawl in the game against Sporting CP. The two clubs are competing for the league title, and things went out of hand at the end of their meeting.
During the 2-2 draw, Sebastian Coates of Sporting was already sent off, and the referee showed a red card to four individuals, including Pepe.
Pepe could be forced to end his career early
The centre-back is under investigation after kicking former Newcastle United midfielder and Sporting coach Hugo Viana. The player is currently banned for two games, while the investigation takes place. If he is found guilty on charges of violent conduct, he could be banned for two months, up to two years.
And with Pepe set to turn 39 in a few days, it could mean the end of his career if he gets hit with a two-year exile. The defender has also been accused of hiding a foreign object, which is speculated to be a ‘bullet’ thrown from the stands. However, this has not been confirmed yet.
This is the 13th red card that the centre-back has received in his career. And, the first red card for Pepe since 2018, being sent off for Besiktas against rivals Fenerbahce at the time.
A total of eight individuals for both teams are under investigation for their violent conduct in the brawl. A number of them have been hit with fines, and suspensions and could be subject to further punishment after the final decision.
