Season over for Madrid's Pepe

Real Madrid CF have suffered a severe blow in their quest for a tenth European Champion Clubs' Cup triumph with central defender Pepe set to miss the remainder of the season with a torn knee ligament.

Operation required
The Portuguese international picked up the injury to his right knee shortly before half-time during his side's 3-2 Liga victory at Valencia CF on Saturday night, when he landed awkwardly following a challenge with David Villa. With subsequent tests revealing the extent of the damage, it was announced that the 26-year-old would undergo surgery before beginning a six-month recovery programme. Pepe had played ten league games this term and every minute of their UEFA Champions League campaign to date. Madrid, who finished top of Group C, will discover who they are to face in the first knockout round when the draw is made in Nyon on Friday.