Algeria coach Djamel Belmadi has come to the defence of Riyad Mahrez following his star player's disappointing performances so far at the Africa Cup of Nations, urging critics not to "kill him too soon".

"I don't want anyone to forget what Riyad is capable of," Belmadi told reporters in the Ivorian city of Bouake ahead of Tuesday's decisive final group game between Algeria and Mauritania.

Mahrez starred as Algeria won the Cup of Nations in Egypt in 2019 but has made little impression in their two matches so far at this edition in Ivory Coast, in draws against Angola and Burkina Faso.

He was even substituted in the 2-2 draw with Burkina Faso on Saturday that has left the Fennec Foxes needing to beat Mauritania to stave off the threat of a second consecutive group-stage exit from the tournament.

"I agree, it's a fact that these have not been his best matches with Algeria, but don't kill him too soon," said Belmadi, pointing out that last season Mahrez was a UEFA Champions League winner with Manchester City.

Mahrez left City last July after five years at the Etihad Stadium, and moved to Saudi Arabia to sign for Al-Ahli of Jeddah.

"He is the captain. I know what he is able to do. I have full confidence in him and the squad has full confidence in him," Belmadi said, although he did not confirm that Mahrez would keep his place in the starting line-up against opponents chasing their first ever AFCON win.