Portugal's Pepe misses training ahead of Wales semi-final

Standout Portugal defender Pepe is a doubt for his country's semi-final against Wales on Wednesday after missing Monday's training session with a thigh injury.

Resolute and disciplined in the heart of the Portuguese defence, Pepe has earned praise as one of the best players at Euro 2016. He has started in all five matches for Portugal, playing beside both Ricardo Carvalho and Jose Fonte in the group stage and knockout rounds.

His absence would deal a huge blow to manager Fernando Santos, who has relied on his team's defensive shape to reach the semi-final stage without recording a win in regular time.

Carvalho, 38, could feature as Pepe's replacement after starting the tournament beside the Real Madrid defender.

"Pepe is a genuine leader of our side. We all have to be leaders, be it in one way or another. Sides need leaders and Pepe does it fantastically," said Santos.

William Carvalho will definitely miss the Wales clash through suspension. Playmaker Andre Gomes and full-back Raphael Guerreiro are expected to be fit after sitting out the quarter-final contest against Poland.