The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, expressed his deep sorrow and regret over the death of Moroccan football legend Ahmed Faras, who passed away on Wednesday, July 16, after a long battle with illness.

In an official statement, CAF extended its heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, to the Moroccan Football Federation, and to all components of Moroccan football, considering that the African continent has lost one of its most prominent sports icons.

The statement read: "Ahmed Faras was not only a great player, but an exceptional leader, whose name was etched in the history of African football through his achievements and unique brilliance."

Ahmed Faras is the first to lead the Atlas Lions to continental glory, winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 1976, and he was awarded the title of African Player of the Year by CAF in 1975, becoming the first Moroccan to achieve this historic feat.

The late Faras is classified among the best strikers in the history of African football, having been associated with Chabab Mohammedia, and he was an example of loyalty and discipline both on and off the field.