Raio Piiroja was born on 11 July 1979 and is an Estonian former professional footballer.
16 Facts About Raio Piiroja
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Raio Piiroja was team captain from 2008 to 2011, and made a total of 113 appearances for Estonia before retiring in 2013.
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On 31 March 2015, Raio Piiroja made his 114th and final appearance for Estonia in his testimonial match against Iceland.
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Raio Piiroja started playing football with his hometown club Rivaal, before moving to Parnu.
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Raio Piiroja made his Meistriliiga debut on 16 July 1995, five days after his 16th birthday, against Eesti Polevkivi in the opening match of the season.
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In 1996, Raio Piiroja joined Lelle, a team affiliated with Flora.
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Raio Piiroja played for Lelle from 1997 until 1999, when he was promoted to Flora's first team.
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Raio Piiroja won his second consecutive Meistriliiga title in the 2002 season and was named Estonian Player of the Year for the first time.
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In 2003, Raio Piiroja joined Norwegian Tippeligaen side Valerenga on loan.
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In 2007, Raio Piiroja extended his contract for four more years.
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On 31 August 2011, Raio Piiroja signed a one-year contract, with an option of extension for another season, at Eredivisie side Vitesse.
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On 18 February 2013, Raio Piiroja signed for China League One team Chengdu Blades.
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Raio Piiroja ended his international career in October 2013, but made one final appearance for Estonia on 31 March 2015, in his testimonial match against Iceland.
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Raio Piiroja made a total of 114 appearances and scored 8 goals.
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Outside of football, Raio Piiroja enjoys skiing and is an avid fisherman.
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On 1 June 2016, Piiroja released his autobiography, Ninamees Raio Piiroja, ohuvoitleja, written by sports journalist Gunnar Press.