Mokhtar Dahari, born on November 13, 1953 in Malaysia, was a legendary striker who left a lasting legacy in Malaysian football. He was introduced to the sport at a young age and quickly displayed immense talent on the field. Dahari's passion for soccer led him to join the Liverpool youth team, where he played a pivotal role in winning the Burnley Youth Cup.
His exceptional skills caught the attention of the Malaysian national team selectors, and in 1972, he made his debut for the national team. Over the next thirteen years, Dahari went on to score an incredible 320 goals, solidifying his status as one of the most prolific scorers in Malaysian football history. During this time, he also played for Selangor FA, where he continued to showcase his scoring prowess until his retirement in 1988.
Dahari's impact on Malaysian football extended beyond his goal-scoring abilities. He was known for his sportsmanship and leadership on the field, earning the respect of fans and opponents alike. His iconic moment came when he shook hands with legendary Argentine soccer coach Diego Maradona during a game against the Boca Juniors, a gesture that epitomized his grace and humility.
Off the field, Dahari led a quiet and humble life. He was devoted to his family and was a loving husband to his wife, Zarina Binti Ibrahim, with whom he had three children. Despite his fame and success, Dahari remained grounded and focused on his passion for the sport that had given him so much joy.
Unfortunately, Dahari's life was cut short when he was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 1991. At the age of thirty-seven, he passed away, leaving behind a grieving nation that had lost one of its greatest sports icons. His legacy, however, lives on in the hearts of all who witnessed his unparalleled talent and sportsmanship on the soccer field.
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