Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, teared up while recalling his time with former Porto teammate Jorge Costa, who tragically died on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, following a cardiac arrest.

In an emotional tribute during the Harambee Stars pre-match press conference, McCarthy was moved to tears while eulogising a man he says played a significant role in his career.

McCarthy recalled being welcomed by Costa as a new player from Africa and how, together, they shared so many moments, including the coveted UEFA Champions League trophy.

“My condolences to his family and the people that he loved. All of us are in a group chat together, and we have been exchanging stories and moments about him. We were only the second Porto team to taste that success, he recounted.

The South African also reflected with admiration on Jorge’s influential role in the Portuguese giants’ success at the time, particularly extolling his leadership responsibilities.

“He was not only our captain. He was also our elder brother and leader. When things did not go as meant to go in games, he was the one who stood up for all of us. The fact that we will not have the opportunity to say our last goodbye to him makes it more sad, but the biggest thing that one can take from the sadness is the incredible moments we enjoyed together,” he added.

“When I joined, I was a kid from Africa, and he kind of looked after me. I have strong admiration for him,” he stated.

“I hope they [Costa’s family] get the support that they need because he leaves behind a wife and kids, so my condolences to his family, his tribute concluded.

Costa, a legendary figure at FC Porto, died at the age of 53 after suffering a cardiac arrest at the club’s training ground.

At the time of his demise, he was Portos’s Director of Football. News of his death sparked an outpouring of condolences from the sporting fraternity.