Aly Hassan, a former Mozambique international footballer and one of the most iconic figures in the country’s sporting history, passed away on Tuesday afternoon after several days battling illness. He was widely recognised for his outstanding career at Grupo Desportivo de Maputo before moving to Portugal, where he rose to international prominence while playing for Sporting Clube de Portugal by successfully containing global football legend Diego Armando Maradona.

The Mozambican Football Federation (FMF) announced the death of Aly Mahomed Hassan with deep sorrow and consternation, describing him as a former international player, coach and one of the most influential personalities in the history of national football.

Hassane made his mark with the Mozambique national team, the Mambas, and with Grupo Desportivo de Maputo, where his talent and discipline quickly set him apart. His career later took him abroad, particularly to Portugal, where he represented Mozambican football with great professionalism, wearing the shirts of Sporting Clube de Portugal, Vitória de Setúbal and other clubs.

His career was marked by historic moments that elevated Mozambique’s name on the international football stage, notably his celebrated performances against some of the world’s finest players. In later years, he continued to serve the sport as a coach, becoming an example of dedication, commitment and selfless service to the development of football in Mozambique.

In this moment of mourning, the President of the Mozambican Football Federation, Feizal Sidat, on behalf of the Executive Board and the entire Mozambican football family, extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved family, friends, former teammates, Grupo Desportivo de Maputo and the Maputo Sports League, wishing them strength and comfort to overcome this irreparable loss.

Aly Hassan will be forever remembered as a true ambassador of Mozambican football and a symbol of excellence, pride and inspiration for future generations.