Riyad Mahrez delivered a masterful display as Al Ahli Saudi FC dismantled Al-Fayha FC 5-0 on Friday in their Saudi Pro League Matchday 28 encounter.
The Algerian international was at the heart of everything, orchestrating the attacking onslaught with three assists, a goal, and an unselfish gesture that summed up his evening—a performance that earned him a perfect 10 rating from SofaScore.
Mahrez, who captained Algeria during the March international break against Botswana and Mozambique, appears to have rediscovered top form after an inconsistent start to the season.
His return to peak condition comes at a crucial time as Al Ahli continue to chase a top-three finish, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr still within reach.
In Friday’s match, Mahrez’s influence was felt early and often.
He delivered his first assist in the 17th minute, followed by two more before the first half concluded—on 37 minutes and in first-half stoppage time.
His vision, precision, and control dictated the rhythm of Al Ahli’s forward play, setting the tone for the dominant win.
The 33-year-old then capped off his evening by scoring the fifth and final goal of the match, sealing a one-sided affair.
Yet, perhaps the most telling moment of the evening came in the 68th minute when Mahrez won a penalty but handed the spot-kick to teammate Ivan Toney, highlighting the selflessness that has long defined his style.
Though not leading the league in raw numbers, Mahrez’s impact this season is increasingly visible.
Prior to this game, he had recorded six goals and nine assists in 27 league appearances—figures that may not dazzle at first glance.
But across all competitions, his tally now stands at 15 goals and 20 assists in 39 appearances.
His current total of 35 direct goal contributions surpasses his output from last season, where he notched 12 goals and 14 assists in 33 matches.
In doing so, Mahrez is proving that his second season in Saudi Arabia is a step up from his first.
Also the all-time top assist provider for Algeria with 35 assists, Mahrez continues to demonstrate why he remains such a valuable asset for both club and country.
His form could prove decisive in Al Ahli’s push for honours as the Saudi Pro League campaign approaches its final stretch.
