Full Name: Diogo Meireles da Costa
Date of Birth: 19 September 1999
Place of Birth: Rothrist, Switzerland
Height: 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)
Position(s): Goalkeeper
Current Club: Porto
Jersey Number: 99
When it comes to the man between the sticks, there are few who exhibit the skill and composure of Diogo Costa in today's football. Standing tall at 6 feet 1 inch, the Portuguese goalkeeper has been a beacon of excellence in a time when praise is often gifted like confetti.
Diogo, humble as ever and calm behind the back four, oozes a sense of confidence, providing steadfast assurance to his outfield players. Often overlooked in discussions of flashy players, he remains a true gem, securing his place as one of the top goalkeepers in modern football.
8 Diogo Costa Facts From Childhood and Career Milestones
1. His Heritage is Portuguese-Swiss
Diogo Costa, born in Rothrist, Canton of Aargau, Switzerland, to Portuguese parents, experienced a significant cultural shift at age seven when his family moved to Santo Tirso, Portugal, following his father's new job at a local factory.
Growing up with the influences of Swiss and Portuguese cultures, Costa benefited from a rich and diverse heritage that has played a crucial role in shaping his personal and professional life.
2. He Started Playing football at A Local Academy AMCH Ringe at Age 9
Diogo Costa began his football journey at the local academy AMCH Ringe at age 9. Here, he developed a passion for the sport and set the foundation for his career. His time at AMCH Ringe was instrumental in shaping his early footballing years, providing him with the necessary training and experience to progress to higher levels. He also had training sessions with Benfica and played for their feeder club Póvoa de Lanhoso between 2009 and 2011.
3. He Joined FC Porto's Academy in 2011 and Progressed Through the Ranks
Diogo Costa joined FC Porto's academy in 2011 and steadily progressed through the ranks to the senior team. He made his senior debut with FC Porto's reserve team on 6 August 2017. By 15 May that year, he had renewed his contract with the club until June 2022. In September 2017, he was named the club's Newcomer of the Year.
Costa was a key part of the team that won the 2018–19 UEFA Youth League. He made his first-team debut for FC Porto on 25 September 2019 in the Taça da Liga and his first Primeira Liga appearance on 10 November 2019. At the start of the 2020–21 season, Costa inherited Porto's iconic 99 shirt and became the first-choice goalkeeper in the next season., marking his rise within the club.
4. His October 2022 Milestones Resonate in Football Lore
Diogo Costa's October 2022 feats are etched in football history. On October 12, he became the first goalkeeper to provide an assist, save a penalty, and keep a clean sheet in a Champions League match.
Just two weeks later, on October 26, he made headlines again by saving three consecutive penalties in the Champions League, an astounding achievement. His stellar performance throughout the season continued, culminating in him finishing the 2023–24 season with the highest number of clean sheets in the Primeira Liga.
5. He Represents Portugal Internationally Having Risen from U15
Diogo Costa has steadily climbed the ranks in Portuguese football, starting from the under-15 level and making his way through various age groups. Eventually, he received his first call-up to the senior team on 26 August 2021.
Costa made his senior debut on 9 October 2021, cementing his reputation as a dependable goalkeeper. His performances led to him being chosen as the first-choice goalkeeper for the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification play-offs, and he played his first World Cup match on 25 November 2022. Costa's rise through the ranks reflects his dedication and significant role in Portugal's football landscape.
6. He is the Youngest Portuguese Goalkeeper to Play in A Major International Tournament
Diogo Costa made history as the youngest Portuguese goalkeeper to play in a major international tournament during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. At just 23 years old, Costa was selected as the starting goalkeeper, showcasing remarkable maturity and skill beyond his years.
His debut came in Portugal's group-stage match against Ghana, where he played a crucial role in securing a 3-2 victory. Despite facing immense pressure and high stakes, Costa demonstrated composure and fortitude, solidifying his place as a rising star in Portuguese football and setting the stage for a promising international career.
7. He is the First Goalkeeper to Save Three Penalties in A European Championship Shootout
Diogo Costa etched his name into football history by becoming the first goalkeeper to save three penalties in a European Championship shootout. This remarkable feat occurred during the UEFA Euro 2024, in a dramatic round of 16 match against Slovenia.
Costa's extraordinary performance included saving all three penalties in the shootout, a display of incredible skill and composure under immense pressure. His heroics secured Portugal's qualification to the quarter-finals and highlighted his exceptional talent and ability to perform in high-stakes situations. Costa's accomplishment underscores his commitment and skill as one of the top goalkeepers in the world.
8. He is A Family Man
Diogo Costa isn't just a standout goalkeeper but a devoted family man. He is married to Catarina Machado, and the couple welcomed their son, Tomás, in November 2022. Despite his demanding football career, Costa places a high value on his family life, often sharing moments of joy and love with his wife and son.
His commitment to his family is evident in how he balances his professional achievements with his personal life. This grounding in family values provides Costa with a source of inspiration and strength, in his endeavours and his athletic pursuits.
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