Badou Zaki's birthday: the legendary Moroccan goalkeeper turns 66

Born on April 2, 1959, in Sidi Kacem, the legendary Moroccan goalkeeper, Badou Zaki, African Ballon d'Or winner in 1986, celebrates his 66th birthday.

Considered by sports journalists as the greatest Arab goalkeeper of all time, the iconic Moroccan wall, Badou Zaki, has left an indelible mark on a whole generation in Morocco and Africa. He is notably among the few goalkeepers to have been awarded the African Ballon d'Or (1986).

The man who defended the Atlas Lions' goal 118 times spent the majority of his career in his home country with Wydad Athletic Club, amassing numerous trophies and personal accolades with the prestigious Casablanca outfit: best goalkeeper in the league three times, two championship titles (1978 and 1986), two Throne Cups (1979 and 1981), and a Mohammed V Cup (1979).

Zaki was also part of the Moroccan national team that secured the first African qualification for the second round of a World Cup in 1986.

His stellar performances during the premier competition later allowed him to showcase his talent beyond borders, at RCD Mallorca (1986-1990). Adored by Spanish fans, who even erected a statue in his honor, the Moroccan goalkeeper was named the best goalkeeper in La Liga for two consecutive years (1989 and 1990).

Amine Jomni |

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African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.