Mahrez played a starring role in Algeria’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph, helping the Desert Warriors secure their second continental title.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Algeria winger Riyad Mahrez has decided to quit international football following his country’s exit from the ongoing World Cup.
This was disclosed on Friday by Italian journalist and football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano in a post shared on his official X page.
Algeria crashed out of the global tournament on Friday after a 2-0 loss to Switzerland in a Round of 32 encounter played at BC Place, Vancouver.
The Europeans took a deserved early lead after some brilliant wing play from Freiburg’s Johan Manzambi, who beat his man before delivering a lovely cutback for Rennes forward Breel Embolo to turn home in the 10th minute.
The Swiss then doubled their advantage almost immediately after the break when a half-hearted clearance from Rafik Belghali ended up at the feet of Dan Ndoye, who placed his shot beyond the dive of goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
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The victory gave Switzerland their first World Cup knockout game win since 1938, and they will now face either Colombia or Ghana in the last 16.
Speaking via his verified handle, Romano revealed that Mahrez confirmed his retirement to beIN SPORTS after the game.
The 35-year-old forward scored 40 goals and provided 45 assists in 119 caps for the Algeria national football team.
Romano wrote: “OFFICIAL: Riyad Mahrez announces his retirement from international football, he’s told beIN Sports. 85 G/A in 119 games for Algeria.”
The former Manchester City star, who currently plays for Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli, will now focus his attention entirely on club football.
