Real Madrid defender Pepe was included in Portugal's preliminary 24-man squad for the World Cup on Monday, proving his recovery from a long-term knee injury. Brazil-born Pepe, who cost Real Madrid 30 million euros ($40.25 million) from Porto in 2007, damaged knee ligaments in December and has not played since.
Gary Neville's disappointing start as Valencia coach continued when the ambitious Singapore-owned club drew 2-2 at home to lowly Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Sunday, prompting more rumblings of discontent from the fans.
Barcelona moved ever closer towards a successful defence of their La Liga title after nearest challengers Atletico Madrid suffered a shock late collapse at struggling Sporting Gijon to lose 2-1 on Saturday.
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