Algerian football icon Riyad Mahrez has officially declared that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final appearance on the global stage, humorously distancing himself from comparisons with Cristiano Ronaldo. The 34-year-old winger, who currently captains Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, made the statement after Algeria’s emphatic 3-0 win over Somalia in the African qualifiers, which secured their spot in next year’s tournament.
“2026 one will be my last. I’m not Cristiano Ronaldo,” Mahrez said with a smile, referencing the Portuguese legend’s longevity and continued international presence at age 40. The comment, delivered with characteristic wit, quickly went viral, drawing reactions from fans and pundits across the footballing world.
🏆 Algeria’s Qualification and Mahrez’s Role
Algeria became the 20th nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, thanks to a dominant performance in Group G. Mahrez scored once and assisted twice in the decisive win over Somalia, reaffirming his status as the team’s talisman.
| Match | Result | Mahrez Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| vs Somalia | 3-0 Win | 1 Goal, 2 Assists |
| vs Uganda | 2-1 Win | 1 Assist |
| vs Mozambique | 1-1 Draw | Played full 90 minutes |
| vs Botswana | 2-0 Win | Goal |
With five direct goal involvements in four qualifiers, Mahrez has been instrumental in Algeria’s campaign, leading from the front both tactically and emotionally.
🧠 Mahrez’s Career Timeline and World Cup Record
| Year | Tournament | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | FIFA World Cup | Group Stage Exit |
| 2019 | AFCON | Champion, 3 Goals |
| 2022 | FIFA World Cup | Did Not Qualify |
| 2026 | FIFA World Cup | Confirmed Final Appearance |
Mahrez’s only previous World Cup appearance came in 2014, where Algeria reached the Round of 16 for the first time. The 2026 edition will be his second and final shot at global glory.
🧾 Mahrez vs Ronaldo: Longevity and Legacy
| Player | Age in 2026 | World Cup Appearances | International Goals | Club in 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riyad Mahrez | 35 | 2 | 31 | Al-Ahli |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | 41 | 6 | 128 | Al-Nassr |
While Ronaldo continues to defy age and expectations, Mahrez has opted for a graceful exit, focusing on mentoring younger Algerian players and contributing to club football in Asia.
🧭 Algeria’s Squad Outlook for 2026
| Position | Key Players | Age in 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Forward | Riyad Mahrez, Islam Slimani | 35, 37 |
| Midfield | Ismaël Bennacer, Houssem Aouar | 28, 28 |
| Defence | Ramy Bensebaini, Youcef Atal | 31, 30 |
| Goalkeeper | Anthony Mandrea | 29 |
Mahrez’s leadership will be crucial in guiding a relatively young squad through the group stages and beyond. His experience, vision, and set-piece prowess remain unmatched in the Algerian setup.
🗣️ Reactions to Mahrez’s Statement
- Djamel Belmadi (Algeria Coach): “Riyad has given everything to Algerian football. His decision is personal, but we’ll make sure his final World Cup is unforgettable.”
- Al-Ahli Club Statement: “We support Riyad’s journey and are proud to have him lead our squad and his nation.”
- Social Media Buzz: Fans flooded platforms with tributes, memes, and appreciation posts, celebrating Mahrez’s honesty and humor.
🧠 Mahrez’s Legacy Beyond the Pitch
Beyond goals and assists, Mahrez has been a symbol of Algerian pride and resilience. From his Premier League triumphs with Leicester City and Manchester City to his leadership in AFCON 2019, he has inspired a generation of North African footballers.
His move to Al-Ahli in 2023 was seen as a strategic shift to balance club commitments with national duties, and his performances in the Saudi Pro League have remained consistent.
Disclaimer
This news content is based on verified player statements, match reports, and tournament data as of October 11, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not constitute betting advice, player endorsement, or selection prediction and adheres to ethical journalism standards.
