Riyad Mahrez Ends International Career with Algeria

Riyad Mahrez Steps Away from National Team

According to Главком: Algeria's captain, Riyad Mahrez, has announced his retirement from international football. His final appearance came in a 2-0 loss to Switzerland during the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup. In that match, Mahrez wore the captain's armband and played until the 71st minute. Since his debut in 2014, he earned 119 caps, scoring 40 goals and providing 45 assists. Notably, he captained Algeria to victory in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. He currently plays for Saudi club Al-Ahli.

Reflecting on his decision, Mahrez shared his emotions:

“Yes. This was not just my last World Cup match. It was my last match for the national team.” - Riyad Mahrez

2026 World Cup Knockout Stage Highlights

Elsewhere in the 2026 World Cup knockout rounds, Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first-ever goal in a World Cup knockout game. He converted a penalty in the 68th minute against Croatia, leveling the score at 1-1 for Portugal. Prior to this, Ronaldo had gone eight knockout matches in World Cups without a single goal or assist.

In another knockout fixture, Zlatan Ibrahimović criticized the officiating in Portugal's 2-1 win over Croatia. The referee disallowed a Croatian goal in stoppage time, sparking controversy. Croatia's defender Joško Gvardiol had put the ball in Portugal's net, but the goal was ruled out due to a contentious offside call against Pašalić.

Mahrez's retirement underscores his immense contribution to Algerian football, especially his leadership during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. Meanwhile, the 2026 World Cup knockout stage continues to deliver drama and challenges for stars like Ronaldo and Ibrahimović, highlighting the high stakes and emotional intensity of elite international football.

As Mahrez bids farewell to his international career, the spotlight shifts to other legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently made headlines by scoring his first-ever knockout goal in a World Cup match. This achievement marks a significant moment in his storied career. To explore the details of Ronaldo's pivotal performance and its impact on Portugal's journey, visit our coverage of Ronaldo's historic knockout goal.