Diogo Costa is a famous Portuguese football goalkeeper. He plays as the number 99 goalkeeper for FC Porto and is the main keeper for the Portugal national team. He is well known for his quick reflexes, penalty‑saving skills, leadership in defense, and calm play under pressure. His journey from youth academy to world‑class goalkeeper inspires many young fans.
In this article, you’ll find his full career details, key stats, personal life info, and fun facts. The style is easy to read, so even young learners can understand his story clearly.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Youth Career
Diogo Costa was born on September 19, 1999, in Rothrist, Switzerland. When he was young, his family moved back to Portugal. There, Diogo started playing football and showed early passion as a future goalkeeper.
He joined the FC Porto youth academy at age 11. He trained hard and grew through the age groups, winning several youth titles before reaching the senior team.
Professional Club Career
Diogo made his professional debut with FC Porto B in 2017 and soon moved up to the first team. Over time, he became the club’s main goalkeeper and one of the best in the league.
His strong clean sheet records, penalty saves, and leadership helped Porto win multiple titles, including Primeira Liga and Taça de Portugal cups.
International Career with Portugal
Diogo Costa played for Portugal’s youth teams, winning the UEFA European Under‑17 Championship and Under‑19 Championship early in his career.
He debuted for Portugal’s senior team in 2021. Diogo soon became their starting goalkeeper, featuring in big tournaments like the FIFA World Cup 2022 and UEFA Euro 2024.
Playing Style and Strengths
Diogo is known for:
- Great reflexes and shot‑stopping
- Penalty saves and pressure handling
- Ball playing skills with accurate distribution
- Strong leadership in defense
His modern style makes him not just a shot‑stopper but also a keeper who starts attacks from the back.
Record Breaking Moments
Diogo achieved big moments such as saving multiple penalties in top competitions and being named Goalkeeper of the Year multiple times in Portugal’s top league.
He also achieved a unique feat at Euro 2024 by saving three penalties in a single shootout.
Stats Overview (2025–26)
In the current season, Diogo has started many games for FC Porto, keeping several clean sheets and showing top performance. His stats include high save counts and consistent defensive play.
Achievements and Honors
Club Honors
- Primeira Liga Titles
- Taça de Portugal Cups
- UEFA Youth League
- Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira
International Honors
- UEFA Nations League
- Multiple youth European titles
Individual Awards
- Goalkeeper of the Year (Multiple)
- Team of the Year honors
Personal Life and Interesting Facts
Diogo is not just a footballer — he is a family man. He welcomed his first child in 2022 and often shares personal moments with fans.
His idol growing up was Vítor Baía, a legendary Portuguese keeper. He even wears the same jersey number 99 as a tribute.
FAQs About Diogo Costa
1. What position does Diogo Costa play?
He is a goalkeeper for both FC Porto and the Portugal national team.
2. When was Diogo Costa born?
He was born on September 19, 1999 in Switzerland.
3. How tall is Diogo Costa?
He is approximately 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in) tall.
4. Has Diogo made history at Euro tournaments?
Yes, he saved three penalties in the Euro 2024 shootout, a rare achievement.
5. What is his jersey number?
He wears #99 for FC Porto.
6. Is Diogo Costa one of the best goalkeepers?
Many fans and analysts consider him one of the top modern keepers, especially in penalty saves and distribution.
Conclusion
Diogo Costa has become one of the most exciting goalkeepers in world football. His journey from a youth player to a national star shows hard work and talent. Young players can learn from his courage, leadership, and focus. Whether you’re a football fan or a beginner, Diogo’s story is full of inspiration.