Riyad Mahrez has ended his international career with Algeria following a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, as confirmed by the player to beIN Sports. The match, played in Vancouver on Thursday, saw Switzerland advance to the Round of 16 for the first time since 1938.
Mahrez confirms retirement after defeat
"This was my final match for the national team," Mahrez told beIN Sports after the game, as shared by 433, a major football media brand. The 35-year-old winger leaves Algeria with 119 appearances, 40 goals, and 45 assists. He was instrumental in Algeria's Africa Cup of Nations 2019 triumph and was named African Footballer of the Year in 2016.
Switzerland's clinical performance
Switzerland took the lead in the 10th minute when Breel Embolo finished a cross from Johan Manzambi, who dribbled down the left flank and delivered a pinpoint pass. Dan Ndoye doubled the lead in the 46th minute with a low shot from outside the box after a defensive clearance. Algeria, captained by Mahrez, could not break through Switzerland's disciplined defense. Fabian Rieder missed a late chance for a third goal, but Switzerland held on for a 2-0 victory.
Historic win for Switzerland
The win marks Switzerland's first World Cup knockout victory since 1938 and their third consecutive win in the tournament, following group-stage victories over Bosnia and Herzegovina and Canada. Switzerland will face either Colombia or Ghana on July 7 in Vancouver. According to FIFA, this is the first time Switzerland has won three successive World Cup matches.
Mahrez's retirement closes a chapter for Algerian football, as the team failed to progress beyond the Round of 32. The defeat also highlighted Switzerland's growing strength under their current setup.
