Pepe thrilled to be in Africa
p>Portugal international Pepe says he’s very glad to visit Africa and discover a rich culture of wonderful people.
The Real Madrid centre back arrived with the Seleccao in Libreville days ago ahead of their friendly match against Gabon at the Stade Amitie on Wednesday.
Pepe and his team mates paid a visit to orphanage homes, schools and hospitals in the central African country on Tuesday and Wednesday on the initiative of the foundation of Gabon’s First Lady Silva Bongo.
“This is very touching, what I’m seeing in Gabon. It’s a rich experience for us all,” Pepe said.
“I’m very happy to visit Africa and to play here. This country has the possibility to develop thanks to the quality of teachers and instructors working with the younger generation. I think the future of Gabon is very bright in terms of education, sports and technology from what we were able to see during our short visit,” he said.
The Portuguese delegation arrived short of top players Ronaldo, Raul Meireles, Nani and Veloso, while the Panthers will also be doing without key players Pierre Emerick Aubameyang, Bruno Ecuele Manga, Eric Mouloungui, Zita Mbanangoye, Remy Ebanega, Daniel Cousin, Didier Ovono, Charly Moussono and Lloyd Palun.
This is the second time Portugal will be playing a national team in Africa after the 1955 friendly against Egypt in Cairo.
