World Cup 2026 (Q): Historic record for Riyad Mahrez with the Fennecs

After playing in the match between Algeria and Botswana (3-1) on Friday, March 21, in the 5th round of the World Cup 2026 qualifiers, Riyad Mahrez reached the milestone of 100 appearances for the Fennecs.

Riyad Mahrez further cements his place in the history of the Algerian national football team. The 34-year-old now boasts 100 appearances in the Fennecs jersey. He reached this milestone following the match between Algeria and Botswana on Friday. A game that counted for the 5th round of the World Cup 2026 qualifiers, which Vladimir Pektovic's men dominated 3-1.

Riyad Mahrez thus joins the exclusive club of Algerian internationals with at least 100 caps for Algeria. Aïssa Mandi leads with 103 caps, followed by Islam Slimani with 102 caps. The legend Lakhdar Belloumi is in third place with 100 caps, and finally, Riyad Mahrez, who is the latest to reach 100 caps.

In 10 years of international career, Riyad Mahrez has contributed immensely to Algeria. The Al Ahli player was a key figure in the Fennecs' triumph at the 2019 AFCON. He has scored 32 goals for the national team since 2014.

Lydiane N'Po |

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Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.