Algeria’s victory over Botswana (3-1) in the Qualifications for the 2026 World Cup should have been a party. But at the final whistle, it is a man who crystallized all the criticisms: Riyad Mahrez. The captain and idol of a whole people delivered a service deemed dull, without impact, to light years of his level of yesteryear. A performance that has not gone unnoticed and which has relaunched an increasingly lively debate within Algerian public opinion.
Mahrez, the king is naked
The figures are cruel, but they are there. Mahrez's last goal in selection dates back to November 2024. Since then, nothing. On the ground, it seems less sharp, less combative, sometimes even in physical difficulty. On social networks, the verdict of supporters is final. The hashtag #mahrezout resurfaces in each match, some accusing it of being “finito” or slowing down the team. We are far, very far from the hero of CAN 2019.
The credit he enjoyed seems to have crumbled, match after match. Criticism is no longer just sporty, it has become deeper. He is accused of making the rain and the good weather in selection, for using his status to block the emergence of young talents like Hadj Moussa or Ibrahim Maza, who are waiting for their turn on the bench. Is yesterday's Savior yesterday becoming the problem today?
A status that protects him, but until when?
For the moment, the former Manchester City winger can count on the unwavering support of his coach. Like Djamel Belmadi before him, Vladimir Petkovic continues to protect him, keep him captain and holder despite his sawtooth performance. Loyalty which is explained by respect for the past, by all that the player has brought to his country. But this protection has its limits.
It's a story as old as football. Legends are struggling to accept their own decline, and the selectors find it difficult to turn the page. But the reality of the high level is ruthless. At 34, with the 2026 World Cup in sight, the question of its future is inevitably. If he does not quickly find his best level, his untouchable status may well end up cracking. For the good of the selection, and not to tarnish his own legend.
