This is the story of a football player who’s seen it all – from Icelandic victories to conquering European leagues. Alfred Finnbogason has a journey that many aspiring footballers would envy. He started his career in Iceland, winning trophies and scoring goals that quickly brought him international recognition. Let’s dive deeper into his remarkable story.
Early Success in Iceland and Beyond
Alfred Finnbogason was born on 1 February 1989 in Reykjavik, Iceland. He wasn’t just any footballer, he was one who shone bright in his home country. With Breidablik Kópavogur, he achieved success that few could match. In 2009, he lifted the cup, a coveted prize for any footballer. And the following year, he achieved the ultimate – becoming national champion and leading the scoring charts in the 1st division. He was a rising star, ready to take on the world.
In January 2011, Finnbogason moved to KSC Lokeren in Belgium, showcasing his talent on an international stage. His success continued as he clinched the Belgian Cup in 2012. This was a crucial turning point in his career, proving that he could compete and triumph in a top European league.
Finnbogason’s talent did not go unnoticed. He went on to play for Helsinborgs IF in Sweden, where he won the Supercup in 2012, solidifying his reputation as a winner. He then moved to SC Heerenveen in the Netherlands, where he was the top scorer in the NL-Superdivisie in 2013-2014, demonstrating his consistent ability to find the back of the net.
The next stop was Olympiakos Piraeus in Greece, where he helped them claim the Greek championship in 2016. This was followed by a significant move to FC Augsburg in Germany, where he played in the 1st Bundesliga for six years (2016 to 2022), featuring in 122 matches and scoring a respectable 39 goals. Finnbogason’s journey was a testament to his talent, hard work, and resilience.
International Stardom and a New Chapter
Finnbogason’s career wasn’t just about club success. He was also a key player for the Icelandic national team, joining them in 2010. He’s played 67 international matches to date, a remarkable feat. He’s left a lasting mark on Icelandic football, and his accomplishments are a source of pride for his nation.
At the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Finnbogason scored Iceland’s first-ever goal at a World Cup, in a 1-1 draw against Argentina. This was a historic moment, one that will be remembered for generations to come. More recently, in June 2023, Finnbogason played in the European Championship qualifiers against Slovakia and Portugal, scoring a goal. He’s a seasoned veteran, still making a difference on the international stage.
Ready for a New Challenge: KAS Eupen
Finnbogason, known for his “will, quality and character” is looking to prove himself once again. He joined KAS Eupen, a Belgian club, in 2023 and is ready to leave his mark in the Jupiler Pro League. The club’s general director, Christoph Henkel, expressed confidence in Finnbogason’s ability to make a significant contribution.
Alfred Finnbogason’s football journey is a truly inspiring story. From his early days in Iceland to his triumphs in European leagues, he has proven himself to be a top-tier player. His recent move to KAS Eupen promises a new chapter in his illustrious career. We can’t wait to see what he achieves next!
