Real Madrid's Pepe: I am not the 'anti-Messi'

Real Madrid defender Pepe was given the task to mark Barcelona star Lionel Messi in the recent series of Clasicos, but the center back has made it clear that he does not deserve all the credit for keeping the tricky attacker at bay.

The Portuguese had been dubbed 'the anti-Messi' by Madridistas for his role against the Argentine in the quartet of matches, with the uncompromising stopper performing well against the FIFA Ballon d'Or winner.

Messi's talent only came to the fore when Pepe was dismissed in the Champions League meeting at Santiago Bernabeu, and he stated to AS: "I did not play to earn myself that nickname. [Keeping Messi quiet] was the result of some good teamwork. We all played our part in keeping Barcelona at bay.

"It is true that Messi did not do much when I was on the pitch, though. I am pleased with that as it was a sign that I did a good job."

The former Porto star then moved on to discuss the upcoming Champions League final between Barcelona and Manchester United, and made it clear that he will be cheering on the Premier League side.

"I am definitely supporting Manchester in the final. Some of my friends play there, like Anderson and Luis Nani."

The showpiece event will be played at Wembley on Saturday, May 28.