Happy birthday to the Master of Sport, Honor of Sport, and Merited Master of Sport, Koço Dinella!

Happy 79th birthday to the “Goalkeeper God,” Koço Dinella, the legendary Albanian football figure!

Koço Dinella was born in Korçë on April 23, 1947. He took his first steps in sport as a child, playing for school and pioneer teams, before continuing with the youth squad of Skënderbeu.

Between 1962 and 1965, he stood out as a goalkeeper with the “Shpresa” team, where his talent was noticed by the well-known coach Loro Boriçi, who promoted him at a young age to the Albanian national team.

During his career, he faced high-level international teams and players, gaining valuable experience in matches such as Albania–Yugoslavia in Egypt and games against West Germany.

In July 1966, he took part in a tour in China with the “Shpresa” team, while between 1966 and 1969 he played as a starter for Dinamo.

On December 17, 1967, he made his debut for the Albanian national team against West Germany, where he was praised by coach Helmut Schön as “the elegant Albanian goalkeeper and master of his goal.”

In 1970, he played with 17 Nëntori in a match against Ajax in Amsterdam.

For 10 consecutive years, he was part of Skënderbeu, leaving a lasting mark on Korçë football.

For his contribution and valuable figure, the Regional Council awarded him the title “Honor of the Region,” with the motivation:

“A model of talented athlete and exemplary citizen, a distinguished figure of Korçë football of the 20th century, inspiring generations with his love for sport and his football mastery.”

He has also been honored with other important titles such as Master of Sport, Honor of Albanian Sport, Merited Master of Sport, as well as labor medals and other recognitions.

“KORÇA BOOM”