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Algerian football captain Riyad Mahrez is poised for his fifth appearance in the prestigious tournament. At 32, Mahrez is not only seeking to guide his team, the Fennecs, back to championship glory, reminiscent of their 2019 triumph but is also eager to erase the bitter memories of the AFCON 2021 in Cameroon and the subsequent World Cup qualification setback in 2022.
The upcoming AFCON, set to commence on January 13, presents an opportunity for Mahrez to lead Algeria to a new title and banish the disappointment of their premature exit in the first round during the 2021 tournament in Cameroon.
Despite facing challenges, including a missed penalty against Ivory Coast, the experienced winger remains resolute about his commitment to the national team.
“We’re not going to make excuses despite the conditions: we simply weren’t up to par, especially me,” stated Mahrez following the AFCON 2021 exit.
The disappointing campaign, where Algeria finished last in their group, scoring only one goal, prompted Mahrez to acknowledge the swift shifts in football’s dynamics.
From Hero to Zero: A Testing Phase
Following Algeria’s triumph in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Mahrez experienced a stark turn of fortune during the subsequent events.
The team, once lauded as reigning champions and tournament favorites, faced a painful early exit in the AFCON 2021.
The woes continued during the World Cup qualification play-offs, where Algeria suffered a heart-wrenching elimination at the hands of Cameroon.
However, recent performances suggest a renaissance for Algeria, with Mahrez instrumental in their journey to AFCON 2023.
The Fennecs secured their place in the tournament by winning all qualifying matches, showcasing resilience and determination. A significant highlight was Mahrez’s pivotal role in securing an away victory against Senegal, the reigning African champions, in a friendly match.
A Season of Triumph and Ambition
Fresh off a stellar season with Manchester City, where he played a crucial role in securing a historic treble (Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup), Mahrez is now plying his trade in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ahli FC.
Despite the change in leagues, Mahrez remains ambitious and fully committed to the Algerian national team.
“Playing for Manchester City or in Saudi Arabia does not change anything in my involvement with the selection.
I am still young and motivated to help my country go far in important tournaments. AFCON 2023 is a goal for us,” Mahrez affirmed in October.
As the AFCON 2023 draws near, the seasoned winger assures that he is in the best shape of his life, having had fewer matches this year and the absence of the demanding Boxing Day schedule.
With a climate he is familiar with, Mahrez aims to guide Algeria to a triumphant campaign and write a new chapter in his storied international career.
Elle est vraiment pas mal la saison de Riyad Mahrez 🇩🇿 avec Al-Ahli 👏
👕 19 matchs
⚽️ 9 buts
🎯 6 passes décisivesIl fait de nombreux dégâts avec son pied gauche ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/gdiCItIkiL
— Footballogue (@Footballogue) December 22, 2023
