Jorge Costa, one year on, emotions still raw at Porto | OneFootball

Today marks one year since Jorge Costa’s death, a loss that plunged Portuguese sport into mourning. He died without warning, and his legacy at FC Porto remains powerful.

O Jogo writes that news of a cardiorespiratory arrest at Olival was followed by confirmation of the worst fears, prompting a nationwide outpouring of support for his family and friends.

Costa was not always a consensual figure, often confronting rivals in staunch defence of the shirt. Mostly for FC Porto, and also for the national team, he earned lasting respect. To Porto fans he was Bicho, an idol admired even among Benfica and Sporting supporters.

For FC Porto the emotional impact was immense, particularly for the club’s president, who later recounted the shock in a first-person account published today.

The ceremonies left a mark on all who attended, and on those who came to see the former captain as a club symbol. Tributes followed, the training centre was renamed in his honour, and on the pitch the team repeatedly found that extra energy he once supplied.

The title carried a fitting and heartfelt dedication. The 12 months since have only underlined that such symbols do not die, they live on in those who remain, inspired by an enduring legacy.

Source: O Jogo

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”