Algerian defender Ramy Bensebaini has come to the defense of his teammate Riyad Mahrez amidst the criticism the latter faced following his performance in the opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations.
In statements reported by Algerian newspaper El Nahar, Bensebaini emphasized, “I am not here to talk about Mahrez; the coach is the one to assess the player’s condition.”
He added, “I say to them only that we should stand together, especially in challenging times like the ones we are going through now.”
Bensebaini concluded, “I ask them to support Riyad and all the players. We should not forget what Mahrez has contributed to the national team.”
The Algerian national team drew 1-1 against Angola in the first match of Group Four, which also includes Burkina Faso and Mauritania.
Algeria continues its journey, facing Burkina Faso on the afternoon of Saturday, January 20.
The Algerian national team is aiming for its third title in history, following victories in 1990 on home soil and 2019 in Egypt.
The current tournament in Cote d’Ivoire provides an opportunity for Algeria to further cement its footballing legacy.
