The football community, especially in Morocco, is mourning the loss of Mehdi Faria, the former coach of the Atlas Lions, who passed away at the age of 80. Born on April 26, 1933, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Mehdi Faria played a significant role in the golden era of Moroccan football during the 1980s.
Faria’s coaching legacy is particularly associated with his time leading FAR Rabat, and later, the national team from 1983 to 1988. Under his guidance, Morocco achieved a historic milestone by participating in the World Cup’s final phase in 1986. During this competition, the Atlas Lions became the first African nation to advance beyond the first round.
In addition to his national team achievements, Faria excelled in coaching FAR Rabat, winning an African Cup of Champion Clubs with the team in 1985.
The late coach will be remembered for his contributions to Moroccan football, and he will be laid to rest on Wednesday after the Dohr prayer at the Chouhada cemetery in Rabat. The passing of Mehdi Faria has prompted tributes from former Real Madrid and Morocco team members, reflecting the impact he had on the sport and the players he mentored.
