Mahrez Joins Algerian Royalty: Desert Foxes Captain Equals Legendary AFCON Record

In a moment that transcends statistics, Riyad Mahrez has reached the summit of Algerian football folklore. During Algeria's commanding 3-1 victory over Equatorial Guinea at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, the 33-year-old captain made his 22nd appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations, drawing level with legendary striker Rabah Madjer and current defender Aïssa Mandi as the nation's most experienced AFCON performer. It's a milestone that carries profound significance for a country where football is woven into the national identity, and where Madjer's overhead kick in the 1987 European Cup final remains a cultural touchstone.

A Perfect Group Stage: Algeria's Statement of Intent

The victory over Equatorial Guinea capped a flawless group stage campaign that saw Algeria collect maximum points from their three fixtures. With nine points secured, the Desert Foxes topped Group E with authority, outscoring opponents 7-2 across their matches. This dominant run represents Algeria's best group stage performance since their triumphant 2019 AFCON campaign in Egypt, where they lifted the continental trophy for the second time in their history.

Current form metrics paint an even more impressive picture. According to Opta data, Algeria have now gone seven consecutive AFCON matches without defeat—a run dating back to the 2019 tournament—and boast a tournament-leading possession average of 61.3% in Morocco. Their defensive organization has been equally impressive, with goalkeeper Mande Abdelkoumane recording the joint-highest save percentage (78%) among keepers who have played all three group games.

The Mahrez Factor: Leading from the Front

Mahrez's journey to this historic milestone spans five AFCON tournaments, beginning with his debut at the 2015 edition in Equatorial Guinea. Since then, the former Manchester City winger has become synonymous with Algerian excellence, contributing 8 goals and 11 assists across his 22 AFCON appearances—numbers that place him second only to Islam Slimani (9 goals) in the all-time tournament scoring charts for Les Fennecs.

The significance of matching Madjer's record cannot be overstated. Rabah Madjer, now 65, remains Algeria's most iconic footballer, having scored the equalizer in Porto's legendary 2-1 comeback victory over Bayern Munich in the 1987 European Cup final. His 22 AFCON appearances between 1980 and 1990 set a benchmark many thought untouchable. Speaking to Algerian media in December 2024, Madjer himself praised Mahrez: "He carries the weight of a nation on his shoulders with grace. To see him reach this number fills me with immense pride for Algerian football."

Knockout Reality Check: The DR Congo Challenge

While celebrations of individual achievement are warranted, Algeria's attention must now shift to a treacherous Round of 16 encounter with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Leopards, who finished as Group D runners-up, present a formidable challenge with their blend of European-based experience and raw athleticism. DR Congo's squad features Premier League talent in Yoane Wissa (Brentford) and Chancel Mbemba (Marseille), alongside emerging star Meschack Elia, who has netted twice in the tournament.

Historical context adds intrigue: Algeria and DR Congo have met four times at AFCON, with each side winning twice. Their most recent encounter came in the 2019 group stage, where Algeria edged a 1-0 victory en route to the title. However, DR Congo's tactical evolution under coach Sébastien Desabre—employing a high-pressing 4-3-3 system—poses unique problems that Algeria's possession-based approach hasn't fully been tested against in this tournament.

• Key Tactical Battle: Mahrez's creative freedom vs. Mbemba's physicality on Algeria's right flank
• Statistical Edge: Algeria have converted 35% of their big chances compared to DR Congo's 22%
• Experience Gap: Six Algerian starters have lifted the AFCON trophy; only one DR Congo player has reached a semifinal

The Bigger Picture: Legacy in the Making

At 33 years old and playing in Saudi Arabia's Pro League with Al-Ahli, this could represent Mahrez's final realistic opportunity to add a second AFCON title to his 2019 triumph. His current market value stands at approximately €15 million according to Transfermarkt, a significant drop from his €60 million peak during his Manchester City days, but his influence on the pitch remains undiminished. With 47 goals in 85 international appearances, he sits just eight goals behind Slimani's all-time record.

The weight of expectation on Mahrez extends beyond statistics. Algeria's passionate fanbase, still riding the high of their 2019 success, views this tournament as an opportunity to cement the current generation's legacy before transition becomes inevitable. With midfielder Sofiane Feghouli (34) and striker Baghdad Bounedjah (33) also in the twilight of their international careers, the Desert Foxes possess a narrow window to capitalize on their veteran core.