Mahrez: No excuses as Algeria chase AFCON glory in Morocco

Context

Riyad Mahrez, the captain of Algeria, says there will be no excuses as his side tries to write a new chapter at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The 34-year-old forward is keen to help the squad blend youth with experience as they start their campaign in Group 5 against Sudan.

Algeria had exited the last two editions at the group stage without a win, after lifting the title in 2019 in Egypt.

Outlook

Mahrez, who plays for Al Ahli Saudi, has faced criticism for a perceived dip in form as he ages and changes leagues. He said criticism comes with aging or changing clubs, but he is not paying it much mind; his focus is on what he can do for the national team and on their shared goal of another major achievement.

He added that morale is high, they are not dwelling on the past, and they are concentrating on tomorrow's match, confident in their quality and the strength of the squad to deliver a positive result.

Asked about his feelings being in Morocco, the country of his mother while his father is Algerian, Mahrez said Moroccans have given them a warm reception and he is happy to be there. He also stressed that his parents' nationalities do not change his commitment; they will give their all to represent Algeria with the best possible image. He closed by noting that taking part in a major tournament hosted by a neighboring country is an extra incentive to perform well.

Punchline 1: If scoring were a joke, I would be headlining the trophy room by now.

Punchline 2: Age is a number, but my legs still sprint faster than my WiFi during a video call.