Riyad Mahrez: Playing in his mother’s homeland while wearing the colours of his father’s nation

Riyad Mahrez: Playing in his mother’s homeland while wearing the colours of his father’s nation

Riyad Mahrez has never needed to explain where his heart lies. At the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, that truth is once again written in goals, leadership, and quiet moments of gratitude.

Born in France to an Algerian father and a Moroccan mother, Mahrez grew up at the crossroads of three identities. He was eligible to represent France, Morocco, or Algeria—three nations with rich footballing traditions and compelling claims. Yet when the moment of choice arrived, there was no hesitation. He chose Algeria. He chose the Desert Foxes.

That decision has defined one of the most celebrated international careers in African football.

“Whether my father is Algerian or my mother is Moroccan, in the end it doesn’t change the sporting stakes or my commitment to my team,” Mahrez said. “But having my mother here for this tournament is special. To have her present, watching me play in her home country… Praise be to God—it is blessings upon blessings.”

Now, in Morocco, fate has added poetry to the script. Mahrez is playing in his mother’s homeland while wearing the colours of his father’s nation, and doing so at the highest level of African football. The setting could hardly be more symbolic—and the performances have matched the emotion.

The former Manchester City winger is currently the top scorer at AFCON 2025 with three goals, leading Algeria’s charge through the group stage. His most telling contribution came against Burkina Faso, where he stepped up under pressure and calmly converted a decisive penalty to secure all three points. It was a moment that captured Mahrez perfectly: composed, confident, and decisive when it matters most.

This is not unfamiliar territory for the Algerian talisman. In 2019, Mahrez played a central role in guiding Algeria to their second Africa Cup of Nations title, a historic triumph sealed with a 1–0 victory over Senegal in the final. That tournament elevated him from star player to national hero, a symbol of belief for a generation.

Years later, though the miles on his legs have increased, Mahrez’s influence has only deepened. His game is now shaped by experience—measured touches, intelligent movement, and leadership that steadies those around him. He no longer needs to dominate with speed alone; his presence controls matches.

For Mahrez, AFCON 2025 is about more than goals or records. It is about roots and resolve. It is about honouring a father’s heritage, a mother’s homeland, and a personal choice made years ago to wear the green and white with pride.

Watched from the stands by his mother and millions more across Africa, Riyad Mahrez continues to write his story—one where identity is not divided, loyalty is unquestioned, and greatness is reaffirmed, one graceful moment at a time.