Aissa Mandi was visibly heartbroken after Algeriaโs 2-0 loss to Switzerland ended their 2026 World Cup run in the round of 16, but he refused to make any rushed decision about his international future.
The Lille defender said the squad had prepared well and believed they were ready to go further, only to be punished by Switzerlandโs efficiency at key moments.
โWe’re very disappointed. We started the match well, we had a solid plan in our heads. Despite that, they scored on their first chance. It threw us off balance. We wanted to turn things around, but the second goal came so quickly and took the wind out of our sails,โ Mandi explained.
He also admitted Algeriaโs lack of clinical finishing made the difference, saying the Swiss scored with their first real chance while the Desert Foxes failed to convert their own opportunities. Mandi, who has just completed a strong season with Lille, rejected the idea of blaming individuals and insisted the result must be shared by everyone in the camp.
Asked whether he might follow Riyad Mahrez into international retirement, the 34-year-old kept his answer open, saying the moment was too raw for such a decision. He finished by thanking the fans for their support and stressing that the team had given everything, even if it was not enough on the night.
