The 5 key moments in Riyad Mahrez's international career

02.07.26 FT World Cup

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Riyad Mahrez has left an indelible mark on Algerian football history. Following the 2-0 defeat to Switzerland and Algeria’s exit in the round of 32 at the World Cup, the Fennecs’ captain (119 caps, 40 goals) has decided to retire from international football. It’s the perfect moment to look back at the standout highlights of his journey with the national team.

First call-up with Algeria

Hot on the heels of his promotion with Leicester to the Premier League, Riyad Mahrez was called up by Vahid Halilhodzic just before the 2014 World Cup. He made his debut for the national team on May 10, 2014, against Armenia, delivering two assists in a 3-1 victory. His performances were convincing enough to earn him a ticket to Brazil.

First international goal

Mahrez netted his first goal for the Fennecs on October 15, 2014, in a 3-0 win over Malawi during the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Well set up by Sofiane Feghouli, he cut inside his marker, drove towards the center, and finished with a clinical low shot just before halftime.

His first World Cup

That was in Brazil, 2014. Just three weeks after his debut against Armenia, he was named in the starting XI against Belgium (a 2-1 defeat). He didn’t feature again in that World Cup, where the Fennecs bowed out in extra time in the round of 16 after a dramatic loss to Germany (2-1 aet).

African Ballon d'Or in 2016

After a stellar season, the Algerian winger was crowned the 2016 African Ballon d'Or winner. This individual accolade speaks volumes about everything Mahrez has contributed to the continent’s football, both for club and country. He is only the third Algerian to claim the award, following in the footsteps of Lakhdar Belloumi in 1981 and Rabah Madjer in 1987.

Africa Cup champion 2019

Like a true legend, he played a pivotal role in his country’s triumph at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. He became immortalized in Algerian football lore after the hard-fought 1-0 win over Senegal in the final at Cairo International Stadium. No one will ever forget his magical free-kick in the semi-final against Nigeria, either.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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