"I'm Not Cristiano Ronaldo": Riyad Mahrez Confirms When His Legendary Algeria Career Will End | OneFootball

"I'm Not Cristiano Ronaldo": Riyad Mahrez Confirms When His Legendary Algeria Career Will End | OneFootball

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·11 October 2025

"I'm Not Cristiano Ronaldo": Riyad Mahrez Confirms When His Legendary Algeria Career Will End

Article image:"I'm Not Cristiano Ronaldo": Riyad Mahrez Confirms When His Legendary Algeria Career Will End

Algerian captain jokes about retirement after leading his nation to qualification

"I'm Not Cristiano Ronaldo": Riyad Mahrez Confirms When His Legendary Algeria Career Will End


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Riyad Mahrez's confirmed that the 2026 World Cup in the U.S, Canada and Mexico will mark his final appearance with the Algerian national team.

Mahrez Leads Algeria to Qualification

The Al Ahli winger played key role in Algeria’s 3 - 0 victory over Somalia scoring the 2nd goal & providing the assist for the 3rd as the Desert Foxes secured early qualification for the 2026 World cup.

"It was important win, We controlled the game from start to finish and I’m happy to help with goal and 2 assist. The most important thing's that we’ve officially qualified for the World cup. Now our focus shifts to the Africa cup of Nations" Mahrez said after the match.

Final Chapter

When asked about his future with the national team, Mahrez responded with smile:

"The 2026 World cup will be my last with Algeria. I’m not Cristiano Ronaldo but I’ll give everything to represent my country in the best way possible"

A legendary record with the Desert Foxes

Following his goal against Somalia, Mahrez reached 33 goal in 106 appearances for Algeria .. a record that cements his place among the country’s all time greats.

The veteran winger expressed his gratitude to his teammates, coach and fans, saying:

"I thank my teammates for their great effort, the coach for his trust and our supporters for always standing by us"

With World cup qualification secured, Algeria'll now turn its attention to preparing for the upcoming Africa cup of Nations where Mahrez hopes to lift another major trophy before his international farewell.

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