Algerian skipper Riyad Mahrez is delighted with the display and performance of the African representatives at the ongoing FIFA World Cup.
The forward guided Algeria to finishing third in Group J, following their 3-3 draw against Austria on Sunday, a result that secured their slot into the round of 32.
Mahrez was on target for the Desert Foxes twice in the game, thus being named man of the match.
He could not hide his delight after the game, as his team progressed to the next round, where they will face Switzerland.
“It means a lot for us to qualify for the next round because it’s the second time in our history. That was our aim we arrived here, we are so happy and I think we deserve it,” he indicated.
The former Man City winger also appreciated the level of performance the rest of the African teams have portrayed at the tournament.
Of the 10 African teams that qualified for the tournament, only Tunisia failed to reach the knockout stage.
“That shows the quality of African Football which is always not described as really good. It is difficult to play in Africa and when you see nine of the ten teams going through to the next round in the biggest tournament that shows a lot and I’m so happy that a lot of teams from our continent have made it,” he stated.
Algeria will return to action on Friday against Switzerland at BC Place Vancouver, Canada.
The other African representatives include South Africa, who play co-hosts Canada on Sunday, Morocco, who will battle the Netherlands on Tuesday, and Senegal, who will face Belgium the following day.
Elsewhere, Ivory Coast will play Norway, DR Congo take on England, Ghana face Colombia, Egypt will be up against Australia, while debutants Cape Verde will face the reigning Champions Argentina.
