Riyad Mahrez Pushes Through Ahead of Saudi Showdown

Riyad Mahrez pushes on before Saudi showdown

Riyad Mahrez, the Algerian star of Al-Ahli, turned down his German coach Matias Jaissle's request for rest ahead of the eagerly awaited match against Al-Taawoun on Wednesday.

Al-Ahli Jeddah will host its counterpart Al-Skari Al-Qassim, as part of the fifteenth round of the Saudi Pro League.

Saudi daily Al-Yaum reported that Mahrez refused his coach's request for rest and to remain in training after the Reds' match against Al-Taawoun.

The Algerian star's refusal came as the importance of the clash with Al-Taawoun weighed on his decision, with Mahrez eager to participate in group training and to be part of the Reds' starting lineup.

Mahrez returned to Al-Ahli Jeddah's training after his country's exit from the Africa Cup of Nations in a quarterfinal loss to Nigeria.

Al-Ahli Jeddah will face the next day's match from fourth place in the Saudi Pro League, with 28 points, three behind third-placed Al-Taawoun on 31.

Punchline: Rest is a tactic, apparently.

Punchline: Sleep wins games, obviously.