Don’t ‘kill’ Riyad Mahrez after two poor games – Djamel Belmadi
Djamel Belmadi has defended his captain (Themba Hadebe/AP)
Algeria head coach Djamel Belmadi has backed under-fire captain Riyad Mahrez to rediscover his best form at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Mahrez, who signed for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli for £30million last summer after five years at Manchester City, has been heavily criticised for his below-par displays in Algeria’s first two group matches.
The Desert Foxes drew 2-2 with Burkina Faso on Saturday after being held 1-1 by Angola in their opening Group D game and must beat Mauritania by two clear goals on Tuesday to guarantee a place in the knockout stage.
Riyad Mahrez, centre, was withdrawn in the second half of Algeria’s draw with Burkina Faso on Saturday (Themba Hadebe/AP)
Belmadi told a press conference: “I don’t want people to forget what Mahrez can do.
“These were not his best two matches in the national team, but do not kill him quickly.
“I will not tell you whether he will be a starter or on the bench, that is not the most important thing.
“He is still our leader. He has always played under pressure. The team and I have complete confidence in him.”
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Group favourites Algeria, tournament winners in 2019, twice came from behind to salvage a point against Burkina Faso thanks to Baghdad Bounedjah’s double, which included a stoppage-time equaliser.
Belmadi’s side are unbeaten in their last 10 matches but are bidding for their first win in six Africa Cup of Nations fixtures.
Mauritania boss Amir Abdou apologised to the West African nation after his side’s 3-2
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