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Mahrez after match against Pitso: I'm not Messi

Following Al Ahli Saudi FC's 2-2 draw against Pitso Mosimane's Esteghlal FC, Riyad Mahrez said he is not Lionel Messi when asked about his form. 

The result ended the Saudi Arabian side's perfect run in the AFC Champions League but despite the slight setback, the Royals had already secured their place in the knockout stages, becoming the first team to do so after their fifth consecutive victory earlier in the campaign. 

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In the recent encounter, Ivan Toney showcased his composure by converting two penalties, while Raphael da Silva Arruda and Mohammad Hossein Eslami found the net for the Iranian side.

Domestically, Al Ahli's form has been inconsistent, with the team currently occupying sixth place in the Saudi Pro League, having secured six wins from 12 matches.

Mahrez, meanwhile, endured a challenging start to the season, failing to register a goal or an assist in his first seven league matches.

However, the Algerian star looks to have recently found his form, scoring three goals and providing one assist in his last five SPL appearances.

Questions about the Algerian's performances were raised after the game against Esteghlal, and he addressed them.

"You cannot compare Manchester City and here. You need everyone to play good," he said per Sportskeeda

"Me, I'm a team player. I'm not Lionel Messi, I can't take the ball and go alone. If the team play good, I play good." 

Read: Pitso: They might call me to come back one day

As Al Ahli progress in their continental campaign, both Mahrez and the team will aim to elevate their performances to meet the club's ambitions on all fronts. 

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