From Vancouver loss to farewell: Mahrez’s final game for Algeria

In the bustling city of Vancouver, the Algerian side fell 2-1 to Switzerland, ending their 2026 World Cup run. Moments after the final whistle, captain Riyad Mahrez confirmed that the match would serve as his swan song for the national squad.

The 35‑year‑old striker reflected on a career that began with a debut in 2013 and quickly turned into a pillar for the Desert Foxes. His contributions include a crucial role in the 2014 World Cup, a starring performance in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations victory, and a record‑setting display at the 2026 tournament where he netted three goals and provided an assist.

Mahrez’s decision to retire comes after 12 seasons, 120 appearances and 40 goals – placing him just behind the all‑time leading scorer. His departure leaves a sizable void, but also a benchmark for future Algerian talents to emulate.