Riyad Mahrez ends Algeria career after World Cup defeat

Riyad Mahrez has confirmed his retirement from Algeria duty after the team’s 2-0 defeat by Switzerland in the World Cup round of 32. The 35-year-old leaves the national side after 120 appearances and 40 goals.

Mahrez indicated after the match in Vancouver that the loss was not only his final World Cup outing but his last game for Algeria. He framed the defeat as a missed opportunity, with Algeria punished for errors at a decisive stage.

His international record places him among the leading figures in Algerian football history. He finishes second for caps behind Aissa Mandi and second for goals behind Islam Slimani, while his captaincy during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations triumph remains a defining part of his legacy.

Even in his final tournament, Mahrez remained central to Algeria’s attack, contributing two goals against Austria and an assist against Jordan. His departure now raises a major question for Algeria: how quickly can the next generation replace both his production and leadership?