Mahrez hints at retirement as Algeria face Switzerland

Switzerland, Thursday, win or go home

It is here. Algeria face Switzerland on Thursday in the round of 32, and everything since the Austria chaos has been building toward this match (2) (3). The group stage drama is done. The 3–3 draw that sent you through, the conspiracy whispers, the confused celebrations when Mahrez scored late, none of it matters now. Switzerland stand between your team and the last 16.

Argentine referee Facundo Falcón Pérez will officiate. A clean performance from him and a big one from whoever starts in goal are non-negotiable. The goalkeeping situation remains the obvious concern.

Mahrez hints at the end

Riyad Mahrez has suggested his international career may be nearing its end. "Quizá sea hora de pasar el testigo," he told Marca, maybe it is time to pass the baton (1).

He did not set a date. He is still your captain, still the man who dragged Algeria through the group. But reading between the lines, every match from here could be his last in an Algeria shirt. The round of 32 just got heavier.