Algiers – Ahead of the crucial knockout stages of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, former Malian international Ibrahim Thiam has offered high praise for Algeria’s captain, Riyad Mahrez. His comments have reignited the debate surrounding Mahrez’s role and influence within the national team.
In statements reported by a French sports publication, Thiam drew parallels between Mahrez’s situation with the Algerian national team and that of Mali’s Yves Bissouma. He highlighted the similar criticisms both players have faced in recent years while representing their respective countries.
Thiam noted that Bissouma, currently experiencing a challenging period with Tottenham Hotspur, is facing increasing doubts in Mali regarding his ability to contribute effectively. He sees this as a reflection of what Mahrez previously endured with the Algerian national team.
“Mahrez was previously a hindrance,” Thiam stated, suggesting that before the current edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, Mahrez wasn’t an asset to Algeria, but rather a burden that negatively impacted the team’s overall performance in the previous tournament.
He elaborated, “Bissouma is currently in the same situation Mahrez was in before. Mahrez was an obstacle to the Algerian team’s success and didn’t make a real contribution during the last edition.”
The former Malian international added that the ‘Desert Foxes’ captain was far from his best form in the previous continental competition, raising questions about his ability to perform at his peak again. However, Mahrez has seemingly used the 2025 edition to provide a resounding response on the field.
“Mahrez has used this Africa Cup of Nations to answer ‘yes’ to all the questions, unlike Bissouma, who hasn’t reached that stage yet,” Thiam explained.
He concluded by emphasizing that despite his age, Riyad Mahrez has successfully rediscovered his brilliance, emerging as one of the national team’s standout players since the start of the tournament. He currently leads the Algerian scoring charts and has delivered consistently strong performances, showcasing his technical ability and experience on the big stage.
