Riyad Mahrez Announces International Retirement After World Cup Exit

Algerian star Riyad Mahrez has announced his retirement from international duty after the "Desert Warriors" were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup, losing 2-0 to Switzerland in the Round of 32.

In statements following the match, Mahrez revealed that the game against Switzerland was his last in the Algerian national team jersey, saying: "This was my last match with the Algeria national team, and I wish my teammates the best in the future."

The captain of the Algerian team confirmed that his side paid the price for some mistakes made against a strong opponent, noting that such details make the difference in major matches at the highest levels.

Mahrez concludes a remarkable journey with the Algerian national team, having won the Africa Cup of Nations title in 2019 and helping lead the "Desert Warriors" to the 2026 World Cup finals.

With 119 international appearances, he continues to etch his name in Algerian football history, becoming the second all-time top scorer for the national team before deciding to end his international career, while he continues his club journey with Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, amid reports of a potential departure in the upcoming transfer window.