Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy was overcome with emotion during a press conference today as he paid a heartfelt tribute to his former FC Porto teammate, Jorge Costa, who died on Tuesday at the age of 53 following a cardiac arrest.

Midway through the press conference at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, where McCarthy was preparing for Kenya’s CHAN match against Angola, a journalist asked for his reflections on the fallen star.

The South African coach paused for a minute, wiping away tears before passionately sharing his fond memories of Costa.

“Yesterday was difficult since receiving the sad news. It is difficult to believe, considering he was still young,” McCarthy said, his voice filled with sadness.

“It was a privilege to have touched him and played with him, one of the most admired captains at Porto. It is when you get such news and you wish you had called him at least last week.”

McCarthy remembered Costa as a true leader on and off the pitch, whose influence on his teammates was profound.

“He is gone, but the memories will live forever with us,” he noted, adding that he must now remain composed for his coaching duties with Kenya.

Costa, a celebrated defender, led Porto to Champions League glory under Jose Mourinho in 2004 and earned 50 caps for Portugal.

He retired in 2006 before embarking on a managerial career at 16 different clubs, most recently serving as Porto’s director of professional football.

His passing marks the third unexpected death of a former Porto player this summer. Tributes have poured in from across the football world, including from Jose Mourinho, who fought back tears while paying tribute to his former captain.

Mourinho said Costa would have told him to “do your press conference, tomorrow play the game mister and win the game – forget about me,” a poignant reflection of Costa’s unwavering focus and dedication.