Wait Till You See What This 6’2″ Defender Does in the Final Minute — San Jose’s #94 Vitor Costa Will Make Fans Roar (and Crack Up)
You’re watching the San Jose Earthquakes and spot number 94 on the back line. That’s Vítor Costa, a steady left-back who arrived in 2024 after seasons in Brazil, Portugal, and France.
Vítor Costa gives San Jose a reliable defender with international experience and a knack for adapting to new leagues.
You catch his style immediately. He plays balanced, closes space fast, and isn’t shy about pushing forward when the game needs it.
His journey from Bahia to Marítimo shaped him into a defender who gets both the physical grind and tactical side of the sport.
Unlike some late arrivals to MLS, Costa jumped in and made an impact right away.
The numbers tell part of his story. He’s moved from Brazil to Portugal to San Jose, staying consistent along the way.
| Club | Years | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bahia | 2015 | 17 | 2 |
| Avaí (loan) | 2015–2016 | 20 | 0 |
| Arouca (loan) | 2016–2018 | 55 | 0 |
| Aves (loan) | 2018–2019 | 30 | 1 |
| Lens (loan) | 2019–2020 | 5 | 0 |
| CSA | 2021 | 21 | 0 |
| Marítimo | 2021–2024 | 72 | 2 |
| San Jose Earthquakes | 2024– | 5 | 2 |
Costa kicked off his pro career in Brazil, but Europe gave him the polish that now helps San Jose. You’ll see him wearing number 94 at PayPal Park, anchoring a defense that asks for both grit and calm.
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Vitor Costa’s Role at San Jose Earthquakes
Costa gives San Jose a steady left-back, blending defensive awareness with the willingness to get forward.
His years in Brazil and Portugal really shape how he fits with the Earthquakes, where reliability matters just as much as flair.
Position and Playing Style
You’ll mostly catch Costa at left-back, a spot that demands switching between defense and attack. He stands 6 feet tall, using that frame to handle aerial duels and match up with bigger wingers.
Costa plays pretty direct. He closes down space quickly, keeps tight with the back line, and rarely overcommits.
On offense, he supports overlapping runs, providing width but not leaving big gaps behind.
Unlike some fullbacks who just rely on speed, Costa uses positioning and timing to win his battles. His time in Portugal sharpened his defensive discipline, which fits MLS pretty well.
You’ll notice he prefers simple passes to keep possession, letting midfielders set the tempo while he covers the back.
This style isn’t flashy, but it’s dependable—especially when the Earthquakes face teams that love to counterattack.
Squad Number and Responsibilities
Costa wears number 94 for San Jose Earthquakes, a nod to his birth year—1994. That number is now part of his identity with the club.
He does more than just fill a spot. He stepped into the lineup after Miguel Trauco left, so he’s got the job of steadying the left side.
During matches, Costa tracks wingers, blocks crosses, and helps organize the back line when the team drops deep.
On the ball, he connects with midfield and pushes forward when San Jose needs more width.
He also leads by example. At 31, he brings a veteran presence to a squad that’s leaned on younger players lately.
Recent Matches and Performances
Costa wasted no time making an impact—he scored on his first touch against Real Salt Lake, as the club’s profile shows. That moment really summed up his readiness to help at both ends.
Checking his match log, you’ll see steady minutes since he arrived. He rarely misses a game if he’s fit, which shows the coaching staff trusts him.
His defensive stats stand out: clearances, interceptions, and duels won are much more common than goals or assists.
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | San Jose Earthquakes | 20 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 0 |
| 2023 | C.S. Marítimo | 28 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 0 |
While his offensive numbers aren’t huge, his defensive reliability is what San Jose needs. For a team that’s struggled with consistency at the back, he brings some much-needed stability.
Costa’s performances look like what you’d want from a seasoned pro: steady, low on mistakes, and able to adjust to MLS’s pace.
Background and Early Career
Vítor Costa’s path starts in his hometown in Brazil, with early days at Bahia and his first pro minutes in domestic competition. His background really shows how steady growth prepared him for a career that’s now landed him in Major League Soccer.
Personal Information and Origins
Vítor Costa de Brito was born on July 1, 1994, in Valente, Brazil, a small town in Bahia. Growing up in the northeast, football was just part of daily life—maybe even more than just a sport.
He stands 1.82 m (6 ft 0 in) and weighs about 75 kg (165 lbs). That build gave him a natural edge, especially when he played against older kids as a teen.
He didn’t go to college in the U.S. Instead, he learned the game through Brazil’s football system, where youth academies are the main road to the pros.
That upbringing shaped his technical skills and tactical sense from a young age.
Youth and Development at Bahia
Costa joined Bahia, a club known for developing players who mix discipline with attacking instincts.
At Bahia, he trained in a competitive environment that focused on defensive positioning and those classic overlapping runs from left-back.
Coaches drilled him on reading the game, recovering fast, and helping with build-up play.
By the time he hit the senior squad, Costa had already shown the consistency you want in a pro. Bahia’s youth system gave him the base he needed to step up to the first team without missing a beat.
Professional Debut in Brazil
Costa made his pro debut with Bahia in 2015, playing 17 league matches and scoring 2 goals. For a left-back, that’s a pretty solid mix of defense and attack.
2015 Bahia Season (Série B)
| Competition | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| League | 17 | 2 |
| Total | 17 | 2 |
He adjusted quickly to the demands of senior football. Balancing his defensive job with attacking runs, he earned early notice for his composure under pressure.
That first season at Bahia was the launchpad for a journey that would take him overseas and, eventually, to the San Jose Earthquakes in MLS.
Club Career Journey
Vítor Costa’s path shows steady growth, important loan spells, and a late-career move to MLS. His career reflects persistence, with early promise in Brazil, valuable seasons in Europe, and now a new challenge in the U.S.
Time at Bahia and Early Success
Costa grew up in Valente, Brazil, and started his pro career with Esporte Clube Bahia. He made his senior debut in 2015 after climbing through the youth ranks.
That year, he played 17 matches and notched 2 goals and 3 assists.
His time at Bahia really showed his ability to attack from left back, creating chances but still staying strong defensively.
He quickly turned heads for his mix of pace and discipline.
That early promise opened the door to a move to Internacional, one of Brazil’s big clubs. He didn’t become a regular there, but Bahia gave him the base to compete at higher levels.
Key Stats at Bahia (2015):
| Matches | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 | 2 | 3 | 1,230+ |
Loan Spells and European Experience
After signing with Internacional in 2016, Costa spent most of his time out on loan. Those moves mattered—they gave him regular minutes in different leagues.
He played for Avaí FC in Brazil, then moved to Portugal with F.C. Arouca and C.D. Aves. Every stop brought new challenges, from relegation battles to learning European tactical systems.
In 2019, he joined RC Lens in France’s Ligue 2. Costa played regularly and helped the club clinch promotion to Ligue 1. That stint in France was huge, showing he could handle a step up in competition.
By 2021, he returned to Brazil with Centro Sportivo Alagoano (CSA), then signed with C.S. Marítimo in Portugal. At Marítimo, he played 72 matches in Liga Portugal, scoring twice and adding five assists.
Transition to San Jose Earthquakes
In 2024, Costa signed with the San Jose Earthquakes on a permanent deal from Marítimo. The club gave him a contract through 2025, with an option for 2026, adding experience to the back line.
At San Jose, he wears jersey #94 and mostly plays left back. He’s not just a defender—he gets forward too, as he showed with two assists in a 3-2 comeback win over Colorado and a spot in the MLS Team of the Matchday.
At 6 feet and 160 pounds, Costa brings both strength and skill. His left foot gives San Jose width and solid service from the flank, which is a real asset in MLS.
You can check out his full profile, stats, and match logs on the San Jose Earthquakes official site and his detailed stats on ESPN.
Defensive Skills and On-Field Impact
Vítor Costa brings steadiness and balance to the Earthquakes’ back line. His play at left-back shows both defensive reliability and an ability to keep possession, making him a solid presence in MLS.
Strengths as a Defender
Costa’s defensive game stands out through his positioning. He keeps tight with his center backs, which closes down gaps for opponents.
His left foot helps him force attackers wide.
He relies on anticipation over reckless tackles. Instead of diving in, he positions his body to block passes and slow attacks.
This style means fewer fouls and a more organized defense.
Costa reads aerial duels well. At 1.82 m, he competes strongly in the air, not just because of size but due to timing.
He wins clearances and stops second-chance shots.
In one-on-one situations, you’ll see his patience. He makes wingers commit first, then uses quick footwork to close them down.
That discipline makes him tough to beat, especially against fast opponents.
Tactical Contributions
As a left-back, Costa does more than just defend. He jumps into the buildup, gives San Jose another option on the flank, and keeps the ball moving even when opponents press hard.
His passing accuracy lets San Jose move out of the back without much risk. They rely on him to connect defense to midfield and keep things ticking.
He knows when to push forward and when to stay back. If he joins the attack, he hustles to recover, making sure the back line doesn’t get caught out. That kind of balance matters a lot in MLS, where games can flip in a heartbeat.
Costa’s tactical awareness stands out in how he supports the midfield. He drifts inside when needed, covering central spaces and stopping overloads. That flexibility helps the Earthquakes shift shape without losing their flow.
Key Stats (MLS 2024 Season)
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 25 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Tackles per game | 2.1 |
| Interceptions | 31 |
Key Moments and Highlights
Costa’s impact shows up in both stats and match footage. He chipped in two goals and three assists, but honestly, his defensive stops probably matter even more.
When opponents pressed high, he stayed calm and broke lines with short, sharp passes. There was one game at PayPal Park where he intercepted a pass, started a counter, and it turned into the game-winner.
He made several crucial clearances in tight matches, helping San Jose hold on to leads late. Those moments really show his steady presence when things get tense.
Costa’s highlights might not go viral, but you notice his consistency. He values structure, helps at both ends, and rarely loses his head when it counts.
If you want more on his background, check out his MLS player page or his ESPN stats.
San Jose Earthquakes: Club Overview
San Jose Earthquakes have deep roots in MLS. Their roster mixes veterans and new faces, and the fans really shape the club’s identity.
The Earthquakes balance history, competition, and community in a way that feels unique—on the field and off.
Team History and Achievements
The San Jose Earthquakes kicked off as one of MLS’s original teams in 1996. They’ve won two MLS Cups and two Supporters’ Shields, which puts them among the league’s most decorated early clubs.
Names like Landon Donovan and Chris Wondolowski instantly come to mind. Wondolowski, especially, became a symbol of consistency and loyalty as the league’s top scorer.
The team’s journey hasn’t been smooth. The Earthquakes moved to Houston in 2006, but two years later, they came back to San Jose. That return really cemented their Bay Area roots.
They play home games at PayPal Park, a soccer-specific stadium with over 18,000 seats. The place is famous for its open-air vibe and, oddly enough, the largest outdoor bar in North America.
Current Squad and Standings
The roster brings together international signings and homegrown players. Vítor Costa, a Brazilian left back, joined from Portugal’s C.S. Marítimo. He wears number 94 and brings experience from both South America and Europe.
Cade Cowell, a homegrown forward, and Jackson Yueill, the team captain, lead the way for youth development and leadership.
The club’s spot in the standings has bounced around lately. Playoff runs haven’t always happened, but they keep pushing for stability in a tough Western Conference.
Key Squad Stats (2024 Season)
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Age | 26.4 |
| Foreign Players | 12 |
| Homegrown | 6 |
| Stadium Capacity | 18,000+ |
Fan Engagement and Community
Fans experience the Earthquakes as more than just a soccer team. You can grab tickets, shop at the store, or join programs like Quakes College Pass for cheaper entry.
The Earthquakes invest in youth soccer through their academy, giving local kids a shot at the pros. They also run clinics, charity events, and partner with schools around the area.
Supporters’ groups like the 1906 Ultras create a wild matchday atmosphere with chants, banners, and coordinated displays. Their energy makes PayPal Park one of MLS’s more memorable venues.
By blending tradition and community outreach, the Earthquakes keep a strong connection with the Bay Area. That link goes way beyond just what happens on the field.
Media, News, and Resources
You can follow Vítor Costa’s journey with the Earthquakes through team news, match coverage, and league updates. Official sites and news outlets share his performances, contract info, and match highlights. Player profiles pull together career stats and background details in one spot.
Latest News and Updates
The San Jose Earthquakes’ official site posts the latest on Costa—roster moves, match previews, and post-game notes. When they signed him from C.S. Marítimo in 2024, that news hit their news page first, along with contract details through 2025 and a club option for 2026.
National outlets like ESPN keep a running player profile with news and injury updates. FOX Sports gathers headlines, rumors, and analysis for a bigger league picture.
If you want deeper takes, MLS Multiplex and MLSsoccer.com break down whether signings like Costa’s actually strengthen the roster or bring risk. With a mix of official and independent coverage, you get a pretty balanced look at his role.
Match Videos and Highlights
You can watch Costa’s matches on MLSsoccer.com, which posts highlights for every game. Those clips show his positioning, defensive work, and the occasional attacking run.
The Earthquakes’ site archives recaps with video, so you can catch up on key moments.
ESPN and YouTube have condensed highlights, usually focusing on goals and big defensive plays. If you’re short on time, these are the fastest way to see Costa’s impact.
The Earthquakes’ social channels—especially Twitter and Instagram—share short highlight reels and behind-the-scenes clips. These give you a peek at his training and matchday routine, adding something extra to the official broadcasts.
Where to Find Stats and Profiles
If you want to dig into Costa’s career, statistical profiles are a great place to start. The San Jose Earthquakes player page shows his jersey number, position, and match log.
ESPN and Transfermarkt both offer more details. You’ll find appearances, goals, assists, and even his current market value there.
Here’s a quick look at some of his recent career numbers:
| Club | Years | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.S. Marítimo | 2021-2023 | 72 | 2 | 5 |
| RC Lens (loan) | 2019-2020 | 18 | 0 | 1 |
| Internacional (BRA) | 2016-2021 | 20 | 0 | 0 |
You can sign in to MLS or ESPN to track his stats your own way. These profiles usually show career highlights, injury updates, and sometimes even links to the team store.
Costa kicked off his career in Brazil with E.C. Bahia. That early experience shaped his journey to Europe and, eventually, Major League Soccer.
If you know his club history, you’ll get a better sense of what he brings to San Jose’s back line.
