Let us introduce you to Igor Kostenko, a young Ukrainian goalkeeper, who in the 2023/2024 season is defending the goal of Portuguese "Benfica" U-16. Kostenko was born in 2008 and since the age of 7, he has been raised in the "Dynamo" academy under the guidance of Sergey Velichko. However, a year and a half ago, he moved to Portugal. There, his talent and extraordinary physical attributes (for example, the goalkeeper's height is 2 meters) were quickly noticed at the "Benfica" academy, one of the most powerful youth academies in the world. After some time, Kostenko joined the U14 team, with which he became the champion of Portugal in the past season.
Currently, the 15-year-old Benfica goalkeeper has three models of goalkeeper gloves that he likes the most.
The first is the Brave GK Venom, a playing model of goalkeeper gloves that provides high grip and perfect ball control. Made of premium latex and neoprene, it features 3D silicone embossing on the back and a double cuff for additional wrist coverage. A distinctive feature is the removable velcro, which can be used as needed, providing a tighter connection, for example, when precision of movement is important. The Roll Hybrid cut ensures excellent ball control due to the full wrapping of each finger in latex, and the neoprene on the back of the glove cushions impacts and guarantees warmth in cold weather.
The second model chosen by Igor Kostenko of Benfica is Brave GK Unique Lime. It represents an innovative approach to goalkeeper gloves with a fresh color scheme and an effective 3D pattern. The palm of the gloves is made of durable German latex, and the Backhand is made of perforated textile, providing the perfect combination of strength and ventilation. These gloves guarantee outstanding grip and high performance in any condition – whether wet or dry weather, playing on grass or artificial turf.
Pads with small 3D elements on the inside of the gloves ensure confident punching, preventing the ball from slipping. Lightweight, tight, and grippy — Brave GK Unique Lime goalkeeper gloves are perfect for those who value quality and understand how important reliable tools are in their hands.
Another model is Brave GK Reaction Black-Red. This outstanding product is created using advanced technologies for maximum comfort and goalkeeper control. Made of 4 mm Supreme Contact German latex with a 4 mm foam lining, they provide unparalleled grip and additional cushioning.
The Rollfinger-style finger cut creates an optimal fit, and silicone inserts inside the palm enhance ball control, making the goalkeeper's response more precise. The back of the gloves and fingers are decorated with 3D elements, facilitating effective punching.
Special attention is paid to the thumb, which is made of textile for additional flexibility and freedom of movement. Partially covered with elastic mesh, this part of the glove provides better hand bending and protects the wrist from strain.
In 2023, Brave GK brand introduced its new collection of goalkeeper gloves, including the Courage Gray, Courage Mint, Reaction Black-Red, Skill Light, and Venom White models. Focusing on meeting modern standards, the collection embodies contemporary sports design, advanced technologies, and high-quality materials, including premium German latex. Each model promises unique advantages for goalkeepers.
In 2023, Brave GK gear has gained recognition from leading football clubs and talented players in Europe. Young talented footballers, such as Alexander Petrenko from Bayer Leverkusen U-19 and Bogdan Sarnavskyi from Lechia Gdańsk, choose Brave GK goalkeeper gloves. The brand actively works on innovations, tests new solutions, and improves products. The development of the next collection of goalkeeper gloves is already underway, aiming to provide goalkeepers with the best tools for successful play in 2024.
Last season, Igor played 26 matches, not conceding a single goal in 20 of them. This significantly contributed to the "young eagles" winning the championship of this age category for the first time in 6 years. In the current season 2023/24 of the national youth championship B (up to 17 years), the team under Kostenko's leadership confidently leads, occupying the honorable first place.
Founded in 2006, Benfica's academy has gained significant influence in the world of Portuguese and European football. This football school has produced such outstanding players as Goncalo Guedes, Bernardo Silva, Goncalo Ramos, and Joao Felix.
The Portuguese team "Benfica", founded in 1904, is part of the "big three" of Portuguese clubs, the most prestigious and renowned teams in the country. The "Eagles" gather around them a huge number of fans - almost 14 million worldwide and more than 250,000 members. With 37 titles in Liga Prima, victory in the Latin Cup in 1950, and two consecutive European Champions Cups in 1961 and 1962, the "Eagles" leave their mark in the history of football.
Benfica's youth teams also demonstrate excellent results in the national youth championship: U-17, U-15, and U-14 confidently lead in their leagues, and the U-19 team currently occupies the third place in the national championship.
We are happy that on the way to new heights, such talented goalkeepers as Igor Kostenko choose Brave GK gear. This confirms that the brand continues to gain trust and recognition in European football. We do not stop at what has been achieved and are actively developing, attracting more goalkeepers to our family. Join us to become part of our successful team!
