Pepe sends warning to Arsenal after Rio Ferdinand's 'ridiculous' conversation

Porto captain Pepe has shared his strategy for knocking Arsenal out of the Champions League – admitting his side have to be ‘perfect’ in the return leg in three weeks time.

The experienced defender, who will celebrate his 41st birthday on Monday, was instrumental in Porto's surprising 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg.

This result puts Arsenal at risk of being eliminated in the last 16 unless they can make a comeback when they face Porto again at the Emirates on March 12. Pepe is optimistic that Porto can emulate Sporting Lisbon's success from last season and knock Arsenal out of Europe.

‘We got an excellent result,’ Pepe said. ‘In London it will be even harder, so we have to go in even more focused than we did today. We have to be perfect.

‘Galeno’s goal was very important, as we want to qualify for the quarter-finals. We knew it was going to be a tough game. Arsenal have a lot of quality, but we put on a great performance and won with a great goal.’

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Rio Ferdinand, who was on punditry duties for TNT Sports, expressed his amazement at Pepe's performance given his age.

«He's 41 on Monday!» exclaimed Ferdinand. «It's ridiculous to think how he's getting his body through. That’s what I was saying to him, ‘How are you doing this?’ – he said, ‘I’m still strong’ – we said it off air.’