Mahrez: I Took My Chance

- Riyad Mahrez believes Leicester City adapted well to their early change in formation against AFC Bournemouth
- The Algeria international scored a 97th-minute free kick to earn 1-1 draw for Claude Puel’s men
- Mahrez says City showed their fighting spirit and fully deserved to claim a Premier League point

Josh King’s first-half penalty gave the Cherries the lead at King Power Stadium and while they continued to frustrate City after the break, a moment of Mahrez brilliance saw the game finish 1-1.

After Kelechi Iheanacho earned a free kick 25 yards from goal, City’s No.26 stepped up to curl home past Asmir Begović before racing over to the dugout to celebrate with his team-mates and the Club’s support staff.

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Riyad Mahrez

Riyad Mahrez runs over to the dugout after sending his free kick past Asmir Begović.

“It was a very difficult game,” said Mahrez. “We started good, but after the injury of [Daniel] Amartey, we changed our shape. It was difficult for us.

“The second half was better and we had a lot of chances, but we didn’t score, so I think in this type of game, when it’s close, you need a free kick or something difficult to do.

“I saw the ‘keeper was a little bit on the right and I took my chance. This goal I think is deserved. We deserved a point at least and I think it’s good for us to not lose today.”

Mahrez was delighted with the way his side continued to press for a leveller in the closing stages – a characteristic that he says often pays dividends for the Foxes.  

He added: “That’s our team. We have always been like that. We knew we were going to score and until the end, we never gave up.

“We scored and everyone was happy. It’s better to win, but when you look at the game and you go after the goal, you take the draw.”