All India Football Federation condoles the death of former India International player and striker Latifuddin who passed away earlier today. Latifuddin was a member of India’s Merdeka Cup campaign in 1974.

Latifuddin made his debut for India on July 26, 1974, when he came in place of Surajit Sengupta in theaforementioned tournament held in Kuala Lumpur. Later, he represented India against Hong Kong and Indonesia in the same campaign.

AIFF President, Mr. Praful Patel in his message said: “It is sad to hear that Mr. Latifuddin is no more. His contribution to Indian Football will never be forgotten. I share the grief.”

AIFF General Secretary, Mr. Kushal Das said: “Mr. Latifuddin will be alive in all of our hearts. He has been the inspiration to so many Footballers. May his soul Rest in Peace.”

At the domestic level, he represented Bengal (1973-76) in the Santosh Trophy and was an integral part of the winning squad in 1975 and 1976. He scored the decisive goal for Bengal as they beat Maharashtra 1-0 in the Santosh Trophy final in 1976.

On the club front, he represented Mohammedan Sporting in 8 seasons (1971, 1973-79) and scored 79 goals for them.

In 1971, along with winning the highest scorer award for netting 22 goals for the Black Panthers, he was a member of the treble-winning (IFA Shield, Said Nagjee Trophy, Shri Narayana Guru Memorial Trophy) squad as well.

He plied his trade for East Bengal also (1972 & 1980) and was a vital cog of the Red & Golds’ 5-trophy winning team in 1972 when they went on to clinch CFL, IFA Shield, Durand Cup, Rovers Cup (Joint) and Brodoloi Trophy respectively.