Pepe has had an extraordinary career.

The Portuguese defender has been one of the best defenders in the 21st century.

Now 39, Pepe continues to play at a high level for both FC Porto and his national side.

The veteran defender played 33 times for Porto in the 2021/22 season as they were crowned Primeira Liga champions and won the Taca de Portugal.

He was in the starting lineup for Portugal's UEFA Nations League clash against Czech Republic on Thursday evening.

Pepe played the full 90 minutes as he helped Portugal to a clean sheet in a 2-0 victory.

Pepe: Portugal veteran showed insane pace vs Czech Republic
LISBON, PORTUGAL - JUNE 05: Pepe of Portugal controls the ball during the UEFA Nations League League A Group 2 match between Portugal and Switzerland at Estadio Jose Alvalade on June 05, 2022 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

LISBON, PORTUGAL - JUNE 05: Pepe of Portugal controls the ball during the UEFA Nations League League A Group 2 match between Portugal and Switzerland at Estadio Jose Alvalade on June 05, 2022 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

A clip of Pepe during the match is attracting attention on social media.

In the 60th minute, Portugal were given a set-piece and Pepe made his way up the pitch and into Czech Republic's box.

However, the attack broke down after an errant pass from Raphaël Guerreiro and the visitors broke forward.

Pepe then showed he's still a beast as he proceeded to run the length of the pitch in just 10 seconds. Watch the clip below...

That is some desire from Pepe. It's that desire which has made him one of the best defenders of his generation.

He left a number of younger Portugal teammates in his wake, including William Carvalho and Guerreiro.

It's the end of the season and Pepe is approaching his forties. Despite that, Pepe clearly still has plenty left in the tank.

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Pepe has now made 127 appearances for Portugal. He is one appearance away from leapfrogging Luis Figo and becoming A Seleção's third-most capped player.

The 39-year-old could achieve that mark when Portugal travel to Switzerland for their Nations League match on Sunday.

Pepe is still a brilliant defender and will no doubt be pivotal for Portugal in their World Cup campaign, which begins in November.

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