The Legacy of Ahmed Faras: A National Treasure
Nicknamed Moul Lkoura, meaning the owner of the ball, Ahmed Faras achieved iconic status in Morocco. His name is synonymous with football excellence and national pride. As a hero to many, he became a symbol of unity and inspiration for the Moroccan people. His passing at the age of 78 left a profound void, not just in the world of sports but in the hearts of those who admired his humility, respect, kindness, and modesty.
Faras was also known as the Lion of the Atlas, serving as a much-loved captain of the Atlas Lions, the national football team. In 1975, he was crowned African Footballer of the Year, a testament to his extraordinary talent. In 2006, he was recognized by the Confederation of African Football (Caf) as one of the best 200 African football players of the last 50 years, based on a poll.
A Life Rooted in Values
For scholars of Moroccan football and politics, the passing of figures like Faras marks a significant shift from an amateur sport that served the homeland to a market-driven industry today. Faras’s life exemplified values over wealth. He famously refused an offer in 1973 to join Real Madrid, choosing instead to play for his hometown club, Sporting Club Chabab Mohammedia.
Born on 7 December 1946 in Laalya, now known as Fdala, in Mohammedia, Faras remained deeply connected to his roots. He began his career with Chabab Mohammedia in 1965 and ended it there in 1982. Beyond football, he was an all-round athlete, excelling in basketball, handball, volleyball, and long jump. His childhood nickname, “the left-hander,” came from his elegant use of the left foot.
A Journey of Dedication
Faras’s early passion for football led him to join a youth centre funded by the Ministry of Youth and Sports. This formal training helped him refine his skills. He was approached by Ittihad Mohammedia in 1963, but Chabab Mohammedia offered him a direct promotion to the first team, which he accepted. His dedication extended beyond team training; he often trained alone, constantly striving for improvement.
Career Highlights
Faras’s career was marked by remarkable achievements. He was part of the first Moroccan national team to qualify for the FIFA Men’s Football World Cup in 1970. He scored two goals, ensuring Morocco’s qualification for the 1972 Olympics in Munich. He continued to score in the Olympics, adding six goals in various editions of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) and another six in World Cup qualification matches.
In 1975, he was named the best African player and captained the team that won the Afcon trophy in Ethiopia in 1976. He was also named the best player of the tournament. Faras was the top scorer of the national football championship in 1969 and 1973. Over his international career, he played 94 matches for the national team between 1966 and 1979, scoring 36 goals and becoming the sacred top scorer.
Character and Patriotism
Despite his achievements, Faras never boasted about his accomplishments. He maintained a respectful demeanor and always welcomed opportunities to contribute to Moroccan football. He lived a modest life, embodying the values of family and community. Faras could not bear being away from Mohammedia, finding immense joy in returning home after tours.
His patriotism was evident, especially during the 1976 Afcon in Ethiopia, where he played despite having typhoid fever. He reminded his teammates of the responsibility of wearing the national jersey, urging them to meet the expectations of the king and the Moroccan people. As captain, he worked tirelessly to motivate young players and help them integrate into the national team with honor.
A National Treasure
Ahmed Faras became a national treasure, embodying noble sports values. His respect among referees and the public was a clear sign of his integrity. He passed away on 16 July, just as Moroccans hoped he would attend the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. They wished to see him witness Morocco lifting an Afcon title for the first time since he did in 1976.
