Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa shot to fame after saving three penalties in the UEFA Euro round of 16 match against Slovenia, securing his team’s advancement.
According to Marca, Costa was born in the Swiss town of Rüthi and moved to Portugal at the age of seven. At just 24, he made a significant impact on the European Championship stage, denying Josip Sesar’s goal-bound effort in extra time and then miraculously saving all three spot-kicks in the shootout, setting a new Euro record. This feat earned him the Man of the Match award and secured his place in Portuguese football history.
Costa’s exceptional performance was not a stroke of luck. Having come through the youth ranks at Porto, he demonstrated his penalty-saving prowess as early as 2022 when he set a Champions League record by stopping three penalties in a single season. He is also Porto’s all-time record penalty-saver. Despite having a contract with the club until 2027, Costa harbors ambitions of joining a top European powerhouse, and his national team exploits have undoubtedly paved the way for greater opportunities.
Former Spanish international and legendary goalkeeper Iker Casillas predicted Costa’s rise: “He’s a rising star, he’ll become a great goalkeeper.”
Costa’s potential was recognized by former Porto coach Julen Lopetegui and his staff. Goalkeeping coach Juan Carlos Arévalo reminisces about Costa’s youthful talent, shining even in the presence of veterans like Casillas. The club had high expectations for his future.
In his post-match comments, Costa remained humble and resolute: “I’ll keep working hard, every save is a validation of my efforts. My family’s support is my biggest motivation, this victory is for them. I believe perseverance and hard work will pay off. Today, I relied on instinct and preparation to fulfill my duty, and I’m very satisfied. Remaining calm and confident is my profession and my commitment to myself.”
With 154 appearances for Porto and 26 caps for the Portuguese national team, Diogo Costa’s story is only just beginning.
Spanish Media Reveals the Hero of Portugal’s Penalty Save: A Record-Breaking Goalkeeper in the Champions League, Already Endorsed by Casillas. Author：Sports UEFA.Please indicate the source when reproduced：https://www.sportsuefa.com/football-world/12983.html
