Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy was overcome with emotion as he mourned the sudden passing of his former FC Porto team-mate and close friend, Jorge Costa. The legendary defender passed away on Tuesday after suffering a cardiac arrest at FC Porto’s training facility, sending shockwaves through the football world.
Jorge Costa, a revered figure in Portuguese football, spent 15 years at Porto, from 1990 to 2005. He captained the side during its most successful era, including the historic 2003-04 season when the club, under the leadership of Jose Mourinho, won the domestic league, cup, and the UEFA Champions League.
McCarthy, who played for Porto between 2003 and 2006, shared the pitch with Costa for two years, forming a close bond with the veteran defender. That connection went far beyond football, with McCarthy describing Costa as an “elder brother” and one of the key figures who guided him through his early days in European football.
Speaking ahead of Harambee Stars’ crucial CHAN 2024 match against Angola, McCarthy reflected on Costa’s influence, recalling how he took him under his wing when he was a young and relatively unknown player from Africa.
“It was not an easy day. The best we can do is offer our heartfelt support to Jorge’s family,” McCarthy said, visibly struggling to hold back tears. “We are part of a group of former Porto players, and we still share memories. Jorge was a leader, a true brother. When things didn’t go well, he was the one who stepped up.”
McCarthy credited Costa with helping shape his career during his time at Porto, saying, “When I joined Porto, I was an unknown kid from Africa and he looked after me. I have great respect and admiration for him.”
Costa’s legacy at Porto is profound. He made 530 appearances for the club, winning eight Primeira Liga titles and numerous other domestic and European honors. Internationally, he earned 50 caps for Portugal. At the time of his death, he was serving as Porto’s director of professional football.
The loss has deeply affected the football community, including former coach Jose Mourinho, who also paid a tearful tribute. The outpouring of emotion reflects the immense impact Costa had both on and off the pitch.
