FC Porto Legend Jorge Costa Dies at 53 Following Heart Failure
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Porto, Portugal – Former Portuguese international adn FC Porto captain Jorge Costa died Tuesday at age 53, the club announced. The cause of death was heart failure, according to a statement released by FC Porto, where Costa most recently served as a professional football director.
Costa collapsed at the club’s training center earlier Tuesday and passed away after being transported to a hospital. His death marks a important loss for Portuguese football and FC Porto, coming after a recent tragedy with the passing of Diogo Jota.
A Storied Career with FC Porto
Costa spent the majority of his playing career with FC porto, achieving legendary status with the club. He was a key member of the team that won the Champions League in 2004, a triumph that solidified his place in football history. Over 15 years with FC Porto,Costa secured eight league titles and five Portuguese Cups.
Prior to the Champions League victory, he also celebrated a UEFA Cup title with Porto in 2003. Costa’s leadership and defensive prowess were instrumental in the club’s success during a golden era.
International Recognition and Early Success
Costa earned 50 caps for the Portuguese national team, including a memorable appearance with the bronze-winning squad at the European Championship in 2000. In that same year, he was named the best player in the Portuguese league.
His international success began earlier in his career, winning the FIFA World Youth championship (under 20) in 1989 alongside Luís Figo. Costa famously converted a penalty in the final against Brazil, securing the victory for Portugal.He also reached the final of the 1994 UEFA European Under-21 Championship and competed in the 1988 FIFA Youth World Championship (under 17).
Beyond the Pitch: A Coaching Career
Following his retirement as a player, Costa transitioned into coaching. He managed several clubs, including clubs in Brazil, Belgium, Cyprus, France, India, and the Gabon national team. He returned to FC Porto in June 2024, taking on the role of director.
Tributes Pour In
FC porto expressed their profound grief in a statement, saying, “Jorge Costa will always live in the memory of all Porto fans. We will never forget you, captain.” The club described him as a leader, captain, and example, a true symbol of FC Porto.
Benfica, a rival club, also paid tribute to Costa, acknowledging his importance to Portuguese football. “Portuguese football is poorer,” the club stated.
Jorge Costa left us. One of us, a leader, captain, example. A symbol of FC Porto.
Thank you for FC Porto until the end.
Until always, Jorge Costa. pic.twitter.com/XTmW5WVEHj
– FC Porto (@fcporto) August 5, 2025
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