April 27, (THEWILL) – Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, who has had a prolific season in front of goal in the current campaign, has decidedly kept his focus on the work still left to do in the UEFA Champions League than be distracted by calls for him to win the Ballon d’Or.
Benzema followed his hattrick against Chelsea with a brace in the first leg of Real’s semi-finals against Manchester City on Tuesday night.
His cold-hearted Panenka penalty for the second goal was hailed by fans as his teammate Vinicius Junior, former teammate, Mesut Özil and former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, all agreed that he had done enough to earn the Ballon d’Or.
However, the French striker himself was more concerned about finishing the job they started in the loss to City at the Etihad. Speaking post-match, Benzema was focused on the work they must do to remain in contention for a record-extending 13th UCL title.
In post-match comments, he reflected on the road ahead: “A defeat is never good, but we are excited about this Champions League and the important thing is we never give up.
“Now we have to go to the Bernabeu and we need the fans like never before to do something magical, which is to win.
“We entered the game without confidence, and that’s what happens with an opponent like Manchester City. In this game a little bit of everything was missing.”
Benzema’s chances of being named the best player in the world could be boosted if he can help France win the World Cup in December.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
