Riyad Mahrez bows out of international football after World Cup exit
Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez has officially brought the curtain down on a glittering international career, announcing his retirement from national team football following the Desert Foxes' 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup.
The loss in Vancouver marked Mahrez's final appearance in Algerian colours, ending a remarkable journey that spanned more than a decade.
"It's my last appearance, even with the national team. It was my last game," the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations-winning captain confirmed after the match.
Reflecting on his time with the Desert Foxes, the former Manchester City star spoke with pride about representing his country.
"There were good times and difficult times as well. That's part of a career. But representing Algeria has been a dream of mine ever since I was young, to play for my country. It's been an immense honour and a great source of pride. It is the new generation's turn to play," he said.
Although Algeria's World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, Mahrez still left his mark on the tournament. The winger enjoyed one of the finest World Cup performances by an Algerian player, contributing to three goals in four matches. He scored twice against Austria and provided an assist against Jordan, setting a new benchmark for goal involvements by an Algerian in a single World Cup edition.
Now with Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli, the 35-year-old departs the international stage as one of Algeria's greatest-ever footballers. He finishes his career with 119 appearances and 40 goals, ranking second on the country's all-time lists in both categories.
Born in France to an Algerian father and an Algerian-Moroccan mother, Mahrez chose to represent Algeria and made his senior debut in 2014. His defining moment came in 2019 when he captained the Desert Foxes to Africa Cup of Nations glory, ending the nation's 29-year wait for a continental title and cementing his place among Algeria's football legends.
As Mahrez steps away from international football, he leaves behind a legacy of leadership, unforgettable moments, and lasting inspiration for the next generation of Algerian stars.
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