Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez has hinted at a possible end to his international career following his nation’s defeat in the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Algeria lost 2-0 to Nigeria in the quarter-finals of the 2025 tournament, ending their hopes of winning the title. After the match, a reflective Mahrez spoke about his time with the national side.
“I don’t know what’s left for me with the national team,” Mahrez said. “I’ve been here for 12 years, I’ve experienced highs and lows, that’s football.”
The 33-year-old winger confirmed this was his final appearance at the AFCON. He was part of the Algerian squad that famously won the competition in 2019.
“This was my last AFCON,” he stated. “I’m sad it ended in the quarter-finals. I would have loved for us to win this trophy again, but unfortunately it won’t be possible.”
Mahrez made his debut for Algeria in 2014 and has earned over 90 caps. He has been a key figure for the Desert Foxes, leading the team as captain in recent years.