One of the latest National Champions of the 2026/27 season is João Costa, brought on by Francesco Farioli in the second half of the 1-0 victory over Santa Clara at Estádio do Dragão in the 34th and final matchday of the League. “Very happy” to have fulfilled “the dream of a lifetime,” the goalkeeper said he has “a different outlook on life” and that “it’s priceless” to help others “become better people and professionals.” Considering his “great friend and teammate” Diogo Costa “one of the best in the world,” João Costa also spoke of Francesco Farioli: “From the very first moment, we felt we shared a common struggle, and we turned that struggle into unity and energy.”

The dream of a lifetime
“I’m very happy; it’s a dream come true. Even after I left, I never let go of this dream. I have a different approach to life, and I like to always be an example to everyone, to inspire others. I’m very happy because I’ve fulfilled my dream, especially with this team.”

Inspiring others to be better
“Most people believe that success is about results and the trophies you lift, but for me, success is the daily work, the discipline, and the feeling that we’re helping others become better people and professionals. That’s priceless.”

The teammate and friend Diogo Costa
“To me, Diogo is one of the best in the world; he’s a great friend and teammate. I’m very grateful to share the locker room with him and learn from him every day. I hope I’ve helped him become a better goalkeeper.”

The relationship with Francesco Farioli
“First and foremost, it was the similarities in what happened last season. From the very beginning, we felt we shared a common struggle, and we turned that struggle into unity and energy.”