French striker Karim Benzema won the men's Ballon D'Or 2022 in Paris on Sunday after an incredible season for his club Real Madrid. The 34-year-old became the oldest player to win the Ballon d'Or for the first time since Stanley Matthews in 1956.

The Real Madrid star was a clear favourite to clinch the prestigious trophy this season after playing an instrumental role in his club's tremendous success last season. Benzema's heroics powered Real Madrid to the Champions League and La Liga titles in what was a brilliant campaign for Carlo Ancelloti's men.

While he was Real Madrid's top-scorer across all competitions, Benzema also made his comeback to the France national team after a gap of almost six years in 2021 following a blackmail scandal. Benzema has since become indispensable for France and is also part of their 2022 FIFA World Cup squad.

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Reacting after&nbsp;winning his maiden Balon d'Or at the age of 34, Benzema said his journey has not been an easy one but he never gave up on his dreams. The French striker said age is just a number for him and he intends to continue chasing his goals.

"This makes me really proud, all the work I did, I never gave up. I had two role models in my life, Zidane and Ronaldo as well. I always had this dream in my mind that everything’s possible. There was a difficult period where I wasn’t in the French team but I worked hard and never gave up, kept my head down and enjoyed playing football," Benzema said after winning his maiden Ballon d'Or on Tuesday.

"I’m really proud of my journey here, it wasn’t easy, it was difficult, for me and my family. Age is just a number for me. People play until their later years now and I still have this burning desire. It is this drive that has kept me going and never allowed me to let up. It kept this dream alive and was the fire behind me. I just want to make the most of it," he added.

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Benzema was unstoppable up front for Real Madrid last season as he scored an impressive 44 goals in 46 games across competitions. The French star finished as the top-scorer in the Champions League with 15 goals, including hat-tricks in all-important games against PSG and Chelsea.

He was tipped by many to lift the prestigious Ballon d'Or this year after his incredible campaign last season. Benzema has continued his prolific run for Real Madrid this season and will be looking to make an impact for France when they begin their title defence in the FIFA World Cup 2022 later this year.

French striker Karim Benzema won the men's Ballon D'Or 2022 in Paris on Sunday after an incredible season for his club Real Madrid. The 34-year-old became the oldest player to win the Ballon d'Or for the first time since Stanley Matthews in 1956.

French striker Karim Benzema won the men's Ballon D'Or 2022 in Paris on Sunday after an incredible season for his club Real Madrid. The 34-year-old became the oldest player to win the Ballon d'Or for the first time since Stanley Matthews in 1956. The Real Madrid star was a clear favourite to clinch the prestigious trophy this season after playing an instrumental role in his club's tremendous success last season. Benzema's heroics powered Real Madrid to the Champions League and La Liga titles in what was a brilliant campaign for Carlo Ancelloti's men. While he was Real Madrid's top-scorer across all competitions, Benzema also made his comeback to the France national team after a gap of almost six years in 2021 following a blackmail scandal. Benzema has since become indispensable for France and is also part of their 2022 FIFA World Cup squad. Also Read: Benzema wins Ballon d’Or 2022: Here is complete list of winners from awards ceremony Reacting after winning his maiden Balon d'Or at the age of 34, Benzema said his journey has not been an easy one but he never gave up on his dreams. The French striker said age is just a number for him and he intends to continue chasing his goals. "This makes me really proud, all the work I did, I never gave up. I had two role models in my life, Zidane and Ronaldo as well. I always had this dream in my mind that everything’s possible. There was a difficult period where I wasn’t in the French team but I worked hard and never gave up, kept my head down and enjoyed playing football," Benzema said after winning his maiden Ballon d'Or on Tuesday. "I’m really proud of my journey here, it wasn’t easy, it was difficult, for me and my family. Age is just a number for me. People play until their later years now and I still have this burning desire. It is this drive that has kept me going and never allowed me to let up. It kept this dream alive and was the fire behind me. I just want to make the most of it," he added. Also Read: Karim Benzema, Alexia Putellas win Ballon d'Or awards for best players in the world Benzema was unstoppable up front for Real Madrid last season as he scored an impressive 44 goals in 46 games across competitions. The French star finished as the top-scorer in the Champions League with 15 goals, including hat-tricks in all-important games against PSG and Chelsea. He was tipped by many to lift the prestigious Ballon d'Or this year after his incredible campaign last season. Benzema has continued his prolific run for Real Madrid this season and will be looking to make an impact for France when they begin their title defence in the FIFA World Cup 2022 later this year.

'I never gave up': Karim Benzema after winning maiden Ballon d'or trophy at 34

Karim Benzema missed a penalty for Real Madrid as they finally blinked in the La Liga title race, dropping their first points of the season in a 1-1 draw with Osasuna on Sunday.

Elsewhere Real Sociedad won 5-3 at Girona and high-flying Real Betis fell to a 1-0 defeat at Celta Vigo. After Barcelona beat Real Mallorca on Saturday, Madrid knew they had to win to stay top but were frustrated by Jagoba Arrasate's well-organised side at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Benzema, on his return to the side after injury, won a spot-kick but then fired it against the crossbar, and also had a goal disallowed for offside as Madrid tried to force a way through.

Vinicius Junior broke the deadlock just before half-time with a cross that snuck all the way into the far corner, but Kike Garcia's well-taken header early in the second period earned Osasuna a point.

"What we were missing was scoring that penalty, normally Karim scores them," Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti told DAZN.

"He had no problem playing the 90 minutes. It's been a month since he's played, he has to get his best form back. He did his part, he had the chance from the penalty. It's an accident, sometimes it happens."

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Real Madrid president Florentino Perez told the club's fans at an assembly on Sunday morning that a European Super League project was essential, but Osasuna showed domestic football can still offer a significant challenge. Benzema made his first appearance since September 6, while Andriy Lunin and Dani Ceballos started in place of injured duo Thibaut Courtois and Luka Modric.

Madrid probed promisingly down the flanks, while at the other end Abde Ezzalzouli, on loan at Osasuna from Barcelona, crashed a shot into the side netting on a bright display. Madrid opened the scoring in fortuitous fashion, with Vinicius whipping in a low cross which caught out goalkeeper Sergio Herrera and crept in at the far post.&nbsp;

Osasuna complained that Benzema and Antonio Rudiger were offside and interfering with play, but their protests were dismissed. The visitors were level five minutes into the second half, when Kike Garcia brilliantly looped a backwards header over Lunin. The goal meant Madrid have failed to keep a clean sheet in any of the first seven league games.

"We were quite solid at the back," insisted Ancelotti. "We conceded a goal from a deep cross, it was quite strange. The team was balanced, the objective is always to be strong to avoid conceding."

Turning up the heat, Benzema drew a stunning save from Herrera, although he was offside, then neatly slipped through Rodrygo Goes, who fired over. The French striker won a penalty when he was shoved over by David Garcia, who was sent off, but hit the crossbar with his effort. Moments later Benzema had the ball in the net, but it was disallowed for offside.

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The draw means Barcelona lead Madrid on goal difference after seven games, with both teams on 19 points and unbeaten. It is the first time the Catalans lead the league at the end of a fixture round since June 2020.

"We have to celebrate, they had won all their games and we came back from a goal down, the team did great work and played a great game," said Arrasate.

"If Madrid's players weren't offside then the goalkeeper's position would have been different (for the opening goal)."

Earlier Real Sociedad, seventh, came out on top after an eight-goal thriller at Montilivi.

Norwegian striker Alexander Sorloth hit a first-half brace for the visitors either side of goals for Girona's Rodrigo Riquelme and Arnau Martinez. Valentin Castellanos put Girona ahead but Brais Mendez and Martin Zubimendi struck in the space of six minutes to restore the Basque side's lead.

Takefusa Kubo made the game safe for La Real late on. Real Betis fell to a narrow defeat at Celta Vigo, playing most of the game with 10 men after Luiz Felipe's 20th-minute red card.

Gabriel Veiga slammed home in the opening stages from distance for the hosts at Balaidos and they moved 10th while Betis remained fourth. Espanyol and Valencia shared a thrilling 2-2 draw which saw both sides reduced to 10 men after red cards for Martin Braithwaite and Marcos Andre respectively.

Karim Benzema missed a penalty for Real Madrid as they finally blinked in the La Liga title race, dropping their first points of the season in a 1-1 draw with Osasuna on Sunday.

Karim Benzema missed a penalty for Real Madrid as they finally blinked in the La Liga title race, dropping their first points of the season in a 1-1 draw with Osasuna on Sunday. Elsewhere Real Sociedad won 5-3 at Girona and high-flying Real Betis fell to a 1-0 defeat at Celta Vigo. After Barcelona beat Real Mallorca on Saturday, Madrid knew they had to win to stay top but were frustrated by Jagoba Arrasate's well-organised side at the Santiago Bernabeu. Benzema, on his return to the side after injury, won a spot-kick but then fired it against the crossbar, and also had a goal disallowed for offside as Madrid tried to force a way through. Vinicius Junior broke the deadlock just before half-time with a cross that snuck all the way into the far corner, but Kike Garcia's well-taken header early in the second period earned Osasuna a point. "What we were missing was scoring that penalty, normally Karim scores them," Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti told DAZN. "He had no problem playing the 90 minutes. It's been a month since he's played, he has to get his best form back. He did his part, he had the chance from the penalty. It's an accident, sometimes it happens." Also Read: Indonesia appoints independent commission to investigate deaths in football stampede Real Madrid president Florentino Perez told the club's fans at an assembly on Sunday morning that a European Super League project was essential, but Osasuna showed domestic football can still offer a significant challenge. Benzema made his first appearance since September 6, while Andriy Lunin and Dani Ceballos started in place of injured duo Thibaut Courtois and Luka Modric. Madrid probed promisingly down the flanks, while at the other end Abde Ezzalzouli, on loan at Osasuna from Barcelona, crashed a shot into the side netting on a bright display. Madrid opened the scoring in fortuitous fashion, with Vinicius whipping in a low cross which caught out goalkeeper Sergio Herrera and crept in at the far post. Osasuna complained that Benzema and Antonio Rudiger were offside and interfering with play, but their protests were dismissed. The visitors were level five minutes into the second half, when Kike Garcia brilliantly looped a backwards header over Lunin. The goal meant Madrid have failed to keep a clean sheet in any of the first seven league games. "We were quite solid at the back," insisted Ancelotti. "We conceded a goal from a deep cross, it was quite strange. The team was balanced, the objective is always to be strong to avoid conceding." Turning up the heat, Benzema drew a stunning save from Herrera, although he was offside, then neatly slipped through Rodrygo Goes, who fired over. The French striker won a penalty when he was shoved over by David Garcia, who was sent off, but hit the crossbar with his effort. Moments later Benzema had the ball in the net, but it was disallowed for offside. Also Read: Erling Haaland, Phil Foden smash hat-tricks as Manchester City thrash Man Utd 6-3 in Premier League The draw means Barcelona lead Madrid on goal difference after seven games, with both teams on 19 points and unbeaten. It is the first time the Catalans lead the league at the end of a fixture round since June 2020. "We have to celebrate, they had won all their games and we came back from a goal down, the team did great work and played a great game," said Arrasate. "If Madrid's players weren't offside then the goalkeeper's position would have been different (for the opening goal)." Earlier Real Sociedad, seventh, came out on top after an eight-goal thriller at Montilivi. Norwegian striker Alexander Sorloth hit a first-half brace for the visitors either side of goals for Girona's Rodrigo Riquelme and Arnau Martinez. Valentin Castellanos put Girona ahead but Brais Mendez and Martin Zubimendi struck in the space of six minutes to restore the Basque side's lead. Takefusa Kubo made the game safe for La Real late on. Real Betis fell to a narrow defeat at Celta Vigo, playing most of the game with 10 men after Luiz Felipe's 20th-minute red card. Gabriel Veiga slammed home in the opening stages from distance for the hosts at Balaidos and they moved 10th while Betis remained fourth. Espanyol and Valencia shared a thrilling 2-2 draw which saw both sides reduced to 10 men after red cards for Martin Braithwaite and Marcos Andre respectively.

Real Madrid drop first points in La Liga as Karim Benzema spurns penalty against Osasuna

Veteran star strikers Robert Lewandowski and Karim Benzema both hit doubles on Sunday in contrasting victories for Barcelona and La Liga leaders Real Madrid. 
Lewandowski scored twice for the second game in a row as Jules Kounde made his debut as Barcelona cruised past Valladolid 4-0.&nbsp;In the late game on Sunday, Real Madrid struggled for 88 minutes at Espanyol. With the scores tied and time running out, Benzema put Real ahead before sealing a 3-1 victory after 10 eventful added minutes.

Real saved their perfect start to the season and climbed back to the top of the table on nine points after three games, ahead of Real Betis on goal difference. 
Barcelona rose to third, two points further back. "To have Lewandowski in your team is a blessing," said Barca coach Xavi Hernandez. In the late game, Vinicius Junior ran on to a sharp diagonal pass in the 12th minute to slide the ball into the far corner and give Real the lead.

Espanyol fought back. Joselu levelled after 43 minutes. He burst through and when Thibaut Courtois saved his first thump at goal and the ball bounced off Eder Militao, the Espanyol striker beat both Real players to the ball and scuffed it in.

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Both teams had chances in the second half before Benzema, as so often in the last year, decided the game. After a quiet game, he found space at the far post with two minutes left, met Rodrygo's cross and volleyed home from cose range. Deep into frantic added time, Espanyol goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte, charged out of his box to stop a Real attack received a red card for a foul on Dani Ceballos. Benzema fired home the free kick.

"We were quite slow," said Real coach Carlo Ancelotti. "We had difficulty managing the intensity of the match." Villarreal dropped their first points of the season in a 0-0 draw at Getafe as Unai Emery's side saw the award of a penalty overturned following a VAR review in the dying stages.

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Veteran star strikers Robert Lewandowski and Karim Benzema both hit doubles on Sunday in contrasting victories for Barcelona and La Liga leaders Real Madrid. Lewandowski scored twice for the second game in a row as Jules Kounde made his debut as Barcelona cruised past Valladolid 4-0.

Veteran star strikers Robert Lewandowski and Karim Benzema both hit doubles on Sunday in contrasting victories for Barcelona and La Liga leaders Real Madrid. Lewandowski scored twice for the second game in a row as Jules Kounde made his debut as Barcelona cruised past Valladolid 4-0. In the late game on Sunday, Real Madrid struggled for 88 minutes at Espanyol. With the scores tied and time running out, Benzema put Real ahead before sealing a 3-1 victory after 10 eventful added minutes. Real saved their perfect start to the season and climbed back to the top of the table on nine points after three games, ahead of Real Betis on goal difference. Barcelona rose to third, two points further back. "To have Lewandowski in your team is a blessing," said Barca coach Xavi Hernandez. In the late game, Vinicius Junior ran on to a sharp diagonal pass in the 12th minute to slide the ball into the far corner and give Real the lead. Espanyol fought back. Joselu levelled after 43 minutes. He burst through and when Thibaut Courtois saved his first thump at goal and the ball bounced off Eder Militao, the Espanyol striker beat both Real players to the ball and scuffed it in. ALSO READ | Watch: Cristiano Ronaldo hilariously pranks Rio Ferdinand ahead of Southampton clash Both teams had chances in the second half before Benzema, as so often in the last year, decided the game. After a quiet game, he found space at the far post with two minutes left, met Rodrygo's cross and volleyed home from cose range. Deep into frantic added time, Espanyol goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte, charged out of his box to stop a Real attack received a red card for a foul on Dani Ceballos. Benzema fired home the free kick. "We were quite slow," said Real coach Carlo Ancelotti. "We had difficulty managing the intensity of the match." Villarreal dropped their first points of the season in a 0-0 draw at Getafe as Unai Emery's side saw the award of a penalty overturned following a VAR review in the dying stages.

La Liga: Karim Benzema scores twice as Real Madrid beat Espanyol 3-1

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has been named the 2021-22 UEFA Men`s Player of the Year, beating team-mate Thibaut Courtois and Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne to the gong. The France international solidified his status as the frontrunner for this year`s Ballon d`Or with victory over the pair, with the award bestowed following the Champions League group-stage draw in Istanbul on Thursday, reports DPA. Benzema, top scorer in both the Champions League and La Liga last term as he guided Madrid to a double, netted 44 goals in 46 games across all competitions. 
 
Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti also was feted at the ceremony, beating Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and Liverpool`s Jurgen Klopp to be awarded the UEFA Men`s Coach of the Year Award. But the headline prize was that handed out to Benzema, who will now be targeting the most notable individual prize in football. The 34-year-old was named among the 30 Ballon d`Or nominees earlier this month, with the long-time Madrid star seemingly the outstanding favourite.

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Benzema scored 27 goals in 32 games as Madrid won LaLiga, and he also netted 15 in 12 Champions League outings en route to Los Blancos lifting their 14th European crown in Paris in May. 
 
This year`s Ballon d`Or winner is due to be confirmed on October 17, with the mid-season World Cup resulting in an early announcement.

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has been named the 2021-22 UEFA Men`s Player of the Year, beating team-mate Thibaut Courtois and Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne to the gong.

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has been named the 2021-22 UEFA Men`s Player of the Year, beating team-mate Thibaut Courtois and Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne to the gong. The France international solidified his status as the frontrunner for this year`s Ballon d`Or with victory over the pair, with the award bestowed following the Champions League group-stage draw in Istanbul on Thursday, reports DPA. Benzema, top scorer in both the Champions League and La Liga last term as he guided Madrid to a double, netted 44 goals in 46 games across all competitions. Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti also was feted at the ceremony, beating Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and Liverpool`s Jurgen Klopp to be awarded the UEFA Men`s Coach of the Year Award. But the headline prize was that handed out to Benzema, who will now be targeting the most notable individual prize in football. The 34-year-old was named among the 30 Ballon d`Or nominees earlier this month, with the long-time Madrid star seemingly the outstanding favourite. ALSO READ | Cristiano Ronaldo brutally 'axed' by Man United manager Erik Ten Hag infront of entire squad: Report Benzema scored 27 goals in 32 games as Madrid won LaLiga, and he also netted 15 in 12 Champions League outings en route to Los Blancos lifting their 14th European crown in Paris in May. This year`s Ballon d`Or winner is due to be confirmed on October 17, with the mid-season World Cup resulting in an early announcement.

Karim Benzema beats De Bruyne to clinch win UEFA Men's Player of the Year

Real Madrid pair Karim Benzema and Thibaut Courtois and Manchester City's&nbsp;Kevin&nbsp;De&nbsp;Bruyne&nbsp;were on Friday shortlisted for the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award.

The European body of European football said that a jury made up of journalists and representatives of clubs playing in European competitions voted for the trio from a list of 15. Polish striker Robert Lewandowski was fourth on the ballot and just missed out. The award will be presented on August 25 during the draw for the Champions League group stage.

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Real won the Spanish Liga and the Champions League. Benzema was named Champions League Player of the Season after scoring 15 goals in the competition, including three in Real's semi-final victory over Manchester City.

When he scored Real's second goal against Frankfurt on Wednesday in the European Supercup, Benzema became the club's second-highest scorer in history with 324 goals, behind Cristiano Ronaldo. Courtois was spectacular as Real edged Liverpool 1-0 in the final and was named player of the match.&nbsp;

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De&nbsp;Bruyne&nbsp;made the shortlist for the third straight year after inspiring City to the Premier League title. Jorginho won the title last year after winning the Champions League with&nbsp;Chelsea and the delayed Euro 2020 with Italy.

UEFA also announced the three nominees for coach of the year. They are Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti, Man City's Pep Guardiola and the man they had to beat to win their biggest titles last season,&nbsp;Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp.

Real Madrid pair Karim Benzema and Thibaut Courtois and Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne were on Friday shortlisted for the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award.

Real Madrid pair Karim Benzema and Thibaut Courtois and Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne were on Friday shortlisted for the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award. The European body of European football said that a jury made up of journalists and representatives of clubs playing in European competitions voted for the trio from a list of 15. Polish striker Robert Lewandowski was fourth on the ballot and just missed out. The award will be presented on August 25 during the draw for the Champions League group stage. ALSO READ: 'I knew I could do more' - Karim Benzema admits Cristiano Ronaldo's exit boosted his ambition Real won the Spanish Liga and the Champions League. Benzema was named Champions League Player of the Season after scoring 15 goals in the competition, including three in Real's semi-final victory over Manchester City. When he scored Real's second goal against Frankfurt on Wednesday in the European Supercup, Benzema became the club's second-highest scorer in history with 324 goals, behind Cristiano Ronaldo. Courtois was spectacular as Real edged Liverpool 1-0 in the final and was named player of the match. ALSO READ: ‘Moved away from...’- Raheem Sterling reveals racial abuse didn’t stop him from joining Chelsea De Bruyne made the shortlist for the third straight year after inspiring City to the Premier League title. Jorginho won the title last year after winning the Champions League with Chelsea and the delayed Euro 2020 with Italy. UEFA also announced the three nominees for coach of the year. They are Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti, Man City's Pep Guardiola and the man they had to beat to win their biggest titles last season, Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp.

Karim Benzema, Thibaut Courtois & De Bruyne feature on the shortlist for UEFA's men's POTY accolade

Karim Benzema spent nearly a decade playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid. However, he has bolstered his game ever since the Portuguese star parted ways with the Los Blancos. Benzema recently opened up about his role in the aftermath of Ronaldo's departure and how he attempted to fill the void that he left behind.

Ronaldo bid the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium&nbsp;adieu back in 2018 in a bid to chart a course to Turin from Madrid&nbsp;to play under the coveted banner of Italian&nbsp;giants Juventus on a&nbsp;£100million deal.&nbsp;Since his departure, Benzema has really come into his own as the primary goal scorer for Los Blancos.

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In a recent interaction with the media, the Frenchman offered fans some insight into how Ronaldo's absence created a space for him to truly hone his craft and push for more goals and golden boot accolades.

“It’s been different for me since Cristiano Ronaldo left Real Madrid. It’s true that I’ve scored many more goals, but when Cristiano was here, we had a different style of play, I was providing more assists," admitted Benzema.

He&nbsp;acknowledged the fact&nbsp;that the 37-year-old forward played an essential role in helping him grow on and off the pitch. However, he further conceded that Ronaldo's departure was the catalyst that prompted him to change his ways and strive for better results, which came in the form of more goals.

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"He really helped me on and off the pitch. But at that time, I did know that I could do more and when he left, it was the time to change my game, change my ambitions and I am doing that well at the moment,” Benzema asserted.&nbsp;

Karim Benzema and his band of speedsters at Real Madrid are currently hurtling towards a&nbsp;UEFA Super Cup clash against&nbsp;Eintracht Frankfurt. The action is set to unfold at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium on August 11th at 12:30 am.

Karim Benzema spent nearly a decade playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid. However, he has bolstered his game ever since the Portuguese star parted ways with the Los Blancos.

Karim Benzema spent nearly a decade playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid. However, he has bolstered his game ever since the Portuguese star parted ways with the Los Blancos. Benzema recently opened up about his role in the aftermath of Ronaldo's departure and how he attempted to fill the void that he left behind. Ronaldo bid the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium adieu back in 2018 in a bid to chart a course to Turin from Madrid to play under the coveted banner of Italian giants Juventus on a £100million deal. Since his departure, Benzema has really come into his own as the primary goal scorer for Los Blancos. ALSO READ: WATCH: Lionel Messi scores stunning bicycle kick goal as PSG thrash Clermont Foot 5-0 in Ligue 1 opener In a recent interaction with the media, the Frenchman offered fans some insight into how Ronaldo's absence created a space for him to truly hone his craft and push for more goals and golden boot accolades. “It’s been different for me since Cristiano Ronaldo left Real Madrid. It’s true that I’ve scored many more goals, but when Cristiano was here, we had a different style of play, I was providing more assists," admitted Benzema. He acknowledged the fact that the 37-year-old forward played an essential role in helping him grow on and off the pitch. However, he further conceded that Ronaldo's departure was the catalyst that prompted him to change his ways and strive for better results, which came in the form of more goals. ALSO READ: Qatar World Cup to kick off sooner than expected as FIFA allows hosts to play first - Report "He really helped me on and off the pitch. But at that time, I did know that I could do more and when he left, it was the time to change my game, change my ambitions and I am doing that well at the moment,” Benzema asserted. Karim Benzema and his band of speedsters at Real Madrid are currently hurtling towards a UEFA Super Cup clash against Eintracht Frankfurt. The action is set to unfold at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium on August 11th at 12:30 am.

'I knew I could do more' - Karim Benzema admits Cristiano Ronaldo's exit boosted his ambition

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has dropped an appeal against a one-year suspended sentence for complicity in a bid to blackmail former France teammate Mathieu Valbuena with a sex tape, his lawyer said Saturday.

Benzema was sentenced in November 2021 and fined 75,000 euros ($82,000) over the 2015 extortion attempt that shocked French football and saw him exiled from the French national team for five-and-a-half years.

The Real Madrid star has finally dropped his appeal, his lawyer Hugues Vigier told AFP, confirming a report on the Actu78 website.

The Versailles court of appeal will notify the parties of the withdrawal order on Tuesday.

Benzema was one of five people tried over the ultimately unsuccessful attempt to blackmail Valbuena with a sexually explicit video stolen from his phone.

He was not accused of being behind the extortion attempt but rather of conspiring with the suspected blackmailers by putting pressure on Valbuena to pay them off.

The 34-year-old footballer had been set to appeal on June 30-July 1 at the court in Versailles, outside Paris. His former lawyer, Antoine Vey, had said Benzema would explain himself in person at the appeal trial.

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In its November judgment, the Versailles criminal court ruled that Benzema had “implicated himself personally, through subterfuge and lies, to convince his teammate to submit to the blackmail".

It added he had shown “no kindness towards Valbuena", as he had claimed, but “just the opposite" and had even appeared to take pleasure in his fellow player’s plight.

The affair rocked the French national team and led to the Madrid star being cast out of the side for five-and-a-half years before making a surprise return to “Les Bleus" in 2021 in time for the European championship.

Benzema, who has always maintained his innocence, has on several occasions expressed his desire to turn the page on the affair as soon as possible.

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News of the star striker’s announcement that he was dropping his appeal came just hours after he scored a brilliant opening goal in France’s UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark in Paris.

The Danes, however, recovered to win 2-1 after substitute Andreas Cornelius scored twice.

Benzema is a favourite for the Ballon d’Or after helping Madrid beat Liverpool 1-0 in the Champions League final in Paris last weekend

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has dropped an appeal against a one-year suspended sentence for complicity in a bid to blackmail former France teammate Mathieu Valbuena with a sex tape, his lawyer said Saturday.

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has dropped an appeal against a one-year suspended sentence for complicity in a bid to blackmail former France teammate Mathieu Valbuena with a sex tape, his lawyer said Saturday. Benzema was sentenced in November 2021 and fined 75,000 euros ($82,000) over the 2015 extortion attempt that shocked French football and saw him exiled from the French national team for five-and-a-half years. The Real Madrid star has finally dropped his appeal, his lawyer Hugues Vigier told AFP, confirming a report on the Actu78 website. The Versailles court of appeal will notify the parties of the withdrawal order on Tuesday. Benzema was one of five people tried over the ultimately unsuccessful attempt to blackmail Valbuena with a sexually explicit video stolen from his phone. He was not accused of being behind the extortion attempt but rather of conspiring with the suspected blackmailers by putting pressure on Valbuena to pay them off. The 34-year-old footballer had been set to appeal on June 30-July 1 at the court in Versailles, outside Paris. His former lawyer, Antoine Vey, had said Benzema would explain himself in person at the appeal trial. Also Read: 'Very happy to be at Manchester United' - Cristiano Ronaldo ends speculations on future In its November judgment, the Versailles criminal court ruled that Benzema had “implicated himself personally, through subterfuge and lies, to convince his teammate to submit to the blackmail". It added he had shown “no kindness towards Valbuena", as he had claimed, but “just the opposite" and had even appeared to take pleasure in his fellow player’s plight. The affair rocked the French national team and led to the Madrid star being cast out of the side for five-and-a-half years before making a surprise return to “Les Bleus" in 2021 in time for the European championship. Benzema, who has always maintained his innocence, has on several occasions expressed his desire to turn the page on the affair as soon as possible. Also Read: Real Madrid demand answers after UCL final marred by crowd trouble News of the star striker’s announcement that he was dropping his appeal came just hours after he scored a brilliant opening goal in France’s UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark in Paris. The Danes, however, recovered to win 2-1 after substitute Andreas Cornelius scored twice. Benzema is a favourite for the Ballon d’Or after helping Madrid beat Liverpool 1-0 in the Champions League final in Paris last weekend

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema drops appeal over 'sex tape' sentence

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has been named the Champions League Player of the Season after a stellar 2021-22 campaign where he finished as top scorer, UEFA said on Tuesday. France international Benzema, 34, won the competition for the fifth time as Real beat Liverpool 1-0 in the final, having netted 15 goals in 12 games including hat-tricks against Paris St Germain and Chelsea in the knockout stages.

Benzema`s team mate Vinicius Junior, who scored the only goal in the final in Paris, was named the tournament`s Young Player of the Season. The duo were also named in the Team of the Season alongside Real midfielder Luka Modric and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who played a starring role in the showdown at Stade de France.

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Runners-up Liverpool were represented by defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson as well as midfielder Fabinho. PSG striker Kylian Mbappe, Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne completed the lineup.

Team of the season: 
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid) 
Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Antonio Rudiger (Chelsea), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Andy Robertson (Liverpool) 
Midfielders: Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City), Fabinho (Liverpool), Luka Modric (Real Madrid) 
Forwards: Kylian Mbappe (Paris St Germain), Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has been named the Champions League Player of the Season after a stellar 2021-22 campaign where he finished as top scorer, UEFA said on Tuesday.

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has been named the Champions League Player of the Season after a stellar 2021-22 campaign where he finished as top scorer, UEFA said on Tuesday. France international Benzema, 34, won the competition for the fifth time as Real beat Liverpool 1-0 in the final, having netted 15 goals in 12 games including hat-tricks against Paris St Germain and Chelsea in the knockout stages. Benzema`s team mate Vinicius Junior, who scored the only goal in the final in Paris, was named the tournament`s Young Player of the Season. The duo were also named in the Team of the Season alongside Real midfielder Luka Modric and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who played a starring role in the showdown at Stade de France. ALSO READ | UEFA to investigate Champions League chaos Runners-up Liverpool were represented by defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson as well as midfielder Fabinho. PSG striker Kylian Mbappe, Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne completed the lineup. Team of the season: Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid) Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Antonio Rudiger (Chelsea), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Andy Robertson (Liverpool) Midfielders: Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City), Fabinho (Liverpool), Luka Modric (Real Madrid) Forwards: Kylian Mbappe (Paris St Germain), Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema named Champions League Player of the Season

Lionel Messi is one of the greatest footballers to have graced the game. Over the years, the Argentine icon has produced some breath-taking performances at the international and club level to wow millions of fans across the globe. One of the most successful footballers of all time, Messi has won the Ballon d'Or a record seven times. However, he might not be one of the favourites to win the greatest individual accolade in football this year.

Messi, who left his boyhood club FC Barcelona to sign for Paris Saint-Germain last summer, had to endure a difficult season in Paris. While goals dried up a bit for the 34-year-old, he was also booed by the PSG fans on several occasions during the season due to his average performances.

After a difficult season with PSG, Messi is certainly not among the top contenders to win the Ballon d'Or for the first time in over a decade. However, the PSG superstar has named his favourite who he thinks is a deserving candidate for the prestigious honour this year.

Mess believes Real Madrid and France striker Karim Benzema deserves to win the Ballon d'Or 2022 for his stellar run across competitions. Benzema played an instrumental role in helping Real Madrid win the La Liga and the Champions League titles this season.

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While he didn't score in the Champions League final against Liverpool on Sunday (May 29), it was due to his consecutive hat-tricks in the knockout rounds against PSG and Manchester City that Madrid managed to qualify for the final. The French stalwart scored 27 goals in La Liga and 15 in the Champions League to cap off a stunning season for Real Madrid.

"There's no doubt, it's very clear that Benzema has had a spectacular year and has ended it by winning the Champions League," Messi told Argentine channel TyC Sports when asked who should win the Ballon d'Or this season.

"He was crucial from the last-16 onwards in every match and I think there's no doubt," he added.

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Benzema is certainly one of the top contenders for the prestigious Ballon d'Or this year after his heroics with Real Madrid. If he manages to win the award, it will be his first-ever Ballon d'Or. However, Benzema is expected to face stern competition from the likes of Liverpool's Mohammed Salah and Sadio Mane among others.

Lionel Messi is one of the greatest footballers to have graced the game. Over the years, the Argentine icon has produced some breath-taking performances at the international and club level to wow millions of fans across the globe.

Lionel Messi is one of the greatest footballers to have graced the game. Over the years, the Argentine icon has produced some breath-taking performances at the international and club level to wow millions of fans across the globe. One of the most successful footballers of all time, Messi has won the Ballon d'Or a record seven times. However, he might not be one of the favourites to win the greatest individual accolade in football this year. Messi, who left his boyhood club FC Barcelona to sign for Paris Saint-Germain last summer, had to endure a difficult season in Paris. While goals dried up a bit for the 34-year-old, he was also booed by the PSG fans on several occasions during the season due to his average performances. After a difficult season with PSG, Messi is certainly not among the top contenders to win the Ballon d'Or for the first time in over a decade. However, the PSG superstar has named his favourite who he thinks is a deserving candidate for the prestigious honour this year. Mess believes Real Madrid and France striker Karim Benzema deserves to win the Ballon d'Or 2022 for his stellar run across competitions. Benzema played an instrumental role in helping Real Madrid win the La Liga and the Champions League titles this season. Also Read: Kings of Europe! Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown While he didn't score in the Champions League final against Liverpool on Sunday (May 29), it was due to his consecutive hat-tricks in the knockout rounds against PSG and Manchester City that Madrid managed to qualify for the final. The French stalwart scored 27 goals in La Liga and 15 in the Champions League to cap off a stunning season for Real Madrid. "There's no doubt, it's very clear that Benzema has had a spectacular year and has ended it by winning the Champions League," Messi told Argentine channel TyC Sports when asked who should win the Ballon d'Or this season. "He was crucial from the last-16 onwards in every match and I think there's no doubt," he added. Also Read: 'My story has come to an end': Robert Lewandowski confirms he will be leaving Bayern Munich Benzema is certainly one of the top contenders for the prestigious Ballon d'Or this year after his heroics with Real Madrid. If he manages to win the award, it will be his first-ever Ballon d'Or. However, Benzema is expected to face stern competition from the likes of Liverpool's Mohammed Salah and Sadio Mane among others.

Not Salah or Mane! Lionel Messi names Real Madrid star who deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year

Real Madrid continued their preparations for the Champions League final with a comfortable 6-0 win at home to Levante. First-half goals from Ferland Mendy, Karim Benzema, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr gave Madrid a 4-0 lead as Carlo Ancelotti continued to rotate his side ahead of the final in two and a half weeks. 
Vinicius scored his second of the game in the 68th minute and completed his hat-trick seven minutes from time against a rival that appeared to accept their fate on Thursday night. 
 
The result means Levante become the first side of the season to be relegated to the second division, given they have an inferior head-to-head goal average with fourth from bottom Cadiz. Also, Benzema scripted another illustrious feat, equalling Raul's incredible goal record (323), with the list being topped by&nbsp;Cristiano Ronaldo for the club (with 451 goals). 
 
Real Sociedad beat Cadiz 3-0 in the first kick-off of the day to ensure they will play at least Conference League next season. Alexander Sorloth put the home side ahead in the 19th minute of the game and penalties scored by Adnan Januzaj in the 53rd minute and Portu deep in injury time mean the team from San Sebastian can finish no lower than seventh this season.

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The result also means that Cadiz still have work to do to avoid relegation and this weekend`s match against Alaves will be vital to their survival. Villarreal also took a big step towards qualifying for Europe next season as they won 5-1 away to Rayo Vallecano. 
 
Alfonso Pedraza put the visitors ahead in the third minute and although Sergi Guardiola pulled a goal back for Rayo, Juan Foyth, Paco Alcacer and Pau Torres made it 4-1 to the visitors before halftime. Pedraza netted a second in the second half to seal an easy win for the visitors. 
 
The win leaves Villarreal four points clear of eighth-place Athletic Club Bilbao, who lost 1-0 to Granada on Tuesday. Other results this week saw FC Barcelona win 3-1 at home to Celta, while Atletico Madrid assured a place in next season`s Champions League with a 2-0 win in Elche, who are safe from relegation.

Real Madrid continued their preparations for the Champions League final with a comfortable 6-0 win at home to Levante. First-half goals from Ferland Mendy, Karim Benzema, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr gave Madrid a 4-0 lead as Carlo Ancelotti continued to rotate his side ahead of the final in two and a half weeks.

Real Madrid continued their preparations for the Champions League final with a comfortable 6-0 win at home to Levante. First-half goals from Ferland Mendy, Karim Benzema, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr gave Madrid a 4-0 lead as Carlo Ancelotti continued to rotate his side ahead of the final in two and a half weeks. Vinicius scored his second of the game in the 68th minute and completed his hat-trick seven minutes from time against a rival that appeared to accept their fate on Thursday night. The result means Levante become the first side of the season to be relegated to the second division, given they have an inferior head-to-head goal average with fourth from bottom Cadiz. Also, Benzema scripted another illustrious feat, equalling Raul's incredible goal record (323), with the list being topped by Cristiano Ronaldo for the club (with 451 goals). Real Sociedad beat Cadiz 3-0 in the first kick-off of the day to ensure they will play at least Conference League next season. Alexander Sorloth put the home side ahead in the 19th minute of the game and penalties scored by Adnan Januzaj in the 53rd minute and Portu deep in injury time mean the team from San Sebastian can finish no lower than seventh this season. ALSO READ | Ajax Amsterdam announce Alfred Schreuder as new coach, to replace Manchester United-bound Erik ten Hag The result also means that Cadiz still have work to do to avoid relegation and this weekend`s match against Alaves will be vital to their survival. Villarreal also took a big step towards qualifying for Europe next season as they won 5-1 away to Rayo Vallecano. Alfonso Pedraza put the visitors ahead in the third minute and although Sergi Guardiola pulled a goal back for Rayo, Juan Foyth, Paco Alcacer and Pau Torres made it 4-1 to the visitors before halftime. Pedraza netted a second in the second half to seal an easy win for the visitors. The win leaves Villarreal four points clear of eighth-place Athletic Club Bilbao, who lost 1-0 to Granada on Tuesday. Other results this week saw FC Barcelona win 3-1 at home to Celta, while Atletico Madrid assured a place in next season`s Champions League with a 2-0 win in Elche, who are safe from relegation.

Real Madrid thrash Levante as Karim Benzema equals with Raul's goal-record, only behind Cristiano Ronaldo

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema heroics in the ongoing season of La Liga and UEFA Champions League has impressed many around the footballing fraternity. Benzema who has recently equalled the record of Cristiano Ronaldo for the most knockout goals in a single Champions League campaign received praise from Fernando Hierro as the La Liga ambassador said the Frenchman is worthy of Ballon d`Or. The Frenchman achieved the feat at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium against Manchester City, where his goal moved him level with Robert Lewandowski`s tally of 86 goals. The Madridista equals the Polish marksman as the third-highest goal-scorer in European Cup history. Ahead of them on the list sit Cristiano Ronaldo (141) and Lionel Messi (125).

The goal helped him in equalling Ronaldo`s record for the most knockout goals in a single Champions League campaign. Benzema`s extra-time penalty winner against City on Wednesday was his 10th goal in the knockouts of UCL&nbsp;this season."Well, Karim Benzema is really an extraordinary player. When I was second coach to Ancelotti, I realized what an exceptional player he is and how is he very talented, how he connects with his mates and how he creates football. When Cristiano left, I think no one expected him to score as many goals as Cristiano," said LaLiga ambassador Fernando Hierro in a statement."He has surprised everyone. Maybe when he was playing with Cristiano and Bale, he was not as ambitious in terms of goalscoring as Cristiano was, but I think he is just fantastic. I think he is worthy of Ballon d`Or because he has really taken a step forward and is performing amazingly," he added.

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Benzema has recorded his best personal tally this season, with 15 goals. Five came in the Group Stage, while the remaining ten have arrived in an incredible knock-out phase run which has seen him score in five successive games against PSG, Chelsea and Manchester City.

Benzema has found the back of the net in the Champions League for 17 consecutive seasons. His first came back in 2005/06 against Rosenborg while playing for Olympique Lyon, where he scored a total of 12 times. The other 74 goals have come in a Real Madrid jersey.He opened his European account for the team with a strike against Milan on November 3, 2009. His favourite opposition in the competition are Galatasaray, PSG and Chelsea, hitting five goals against all of them.

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema heroics in the ongoing season of La Liga and UEFA Champions League has impressed many around the footballing fraternity. Benzema who has recently equalled the record of Cristiano Ronaldo for the most knockout goals in a single Champions League campaign received praise from Fernando Hierro as the La Liga ambassador said the Frenchman is worthy of Ballon d`Or.

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema heroics in the ongoing season of La Liga and UEFA Champions League has impressed many around the footballing fraternity. Benzema who has recently equalled the record of Cristiano Ronaldo for the most knockout goals in a single Champions League campaign received praise from Fernando Hierro as the La Liga ambassador said the Frenchman is worthy of Ballon d`Or. The Frenchman achieved the feat at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium against Manchester City, where his goal moved him level with Robert Lewandowski`s tally of 86 goals. The Madridista equals the Polish marksman as the third-highest goal-scorer in European Cup history. Ahead of them on the list sit Cristiano Ronaldo (141) and Lionel Messi (125). The goal helped him in equalling Ronaldo`s record for the most knockout goals in a single Champions League campaign. Benzema`s extra-time penalty winner against City on Wednesday was his 10th goal in the knockouts of UCL this season."Well, Karim Benzema is really an extraordinary player. When I was second coach to Ancelotti, I realized what an exceptional player he is and how is he very talented, how he connects with his mates and how he creates football. When Cristiano left, I think no one expected him to score as many goals as Cristiano," said LaLiga ambassador Fernando Hierro in a statement."He has surprised everyone. Maybe when he was playing with Cristiano and Bale, he was not as ambitious in terms of goalscoring as Cristiano was, but I think he is just fantastic. I think he is worthy of Ballon d`Or because he has really taken a step forward and is performing amazingly," he added. ALSO READ | UCL: Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema equals records of Cristiano Ronaldo, Robert Lewandowski Benzema has recorded his best personal tally this season, with 15 goals. Five came in the Group Stage, while the remaining ten have arrived in an incredible knock-out phase run which has seen him score in five successive games against PSG, Chelsea and Manchester City. Benzema has found the back of the net in the Champions League for 17 consecutive seasons. His first came back in 2005/06 against Rosenborg while playing for Olympique Lyon, where he scored a total of 12 times. The other 74 goals have come in a Real Madrid jersey.He opened his European account for the team with a strike against Milan on November 3, 2009. His favourite opposition in the competition are Galatasaray, PSG and Chelsea, hitting five goals against all of them.

'Karim Benzema is worthy of Ballon d''Or' - Fernando Hierro lauds Real Madrid striker

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema continues to add to his legendary status in the UEFA Champions League. His goal at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium against Manchester City moved him level with Robert Lewandowski`s tally of 86 goals.

The Madridista equals the Polish marksman as the third-highest goal scorer in European Cup history. Ahead of them on the list sit Cristiano Ronaldo (141) and Lionel Messi (125). The Frenchman also equalled Ronaldo`s record for the most knockout goals in a single Champions League campaign. Benzema`s extra-time penalty winner against City on Wednesday was his 10th goal in the knockouts of UCL this season. Benzema has recorded his best personal tally this season, with 15 goals. Five came in the Group Stage, while the remaining ten have arrived in an incredible knock-out phase run which has seen him score in five successive games against PSG, Chelsea and Manchester City.

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Benzema has found the back of the net in the Champions League for 17 consecutive seasons. His first came back in 2005/06 against Rosenborg while playing for Olympique Lyon, where he scored a total of 12 times. The other 74 goals have come in a Real Madrid jersey. He opened his European account for the team with a strike against Milan on 3 November 2009. His favourite opposition in the competition are Galatasaray, PSG and Chelsea, hitting five goals against all of them.

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema continues to add to his legendary status in the UEFA Champions League. His goal at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium against Manchester City moved him level with Robert Lewandowski`s tally of 86 goals.

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema continues to add to his legendary status in the UEFA Champions League. His goal at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium against Manchester City moved him level with Robert Lewandowski`s tally of 86 goals. The Madridista equals the Polish marksman as the third-highest goal scorer in European Cup history. Ahead of them on the list sit Cristiano Ronaldo (141) and Lionel Messi (125). The Frenchman also equalled Ronaldo`s record for the most knockout goals in a single Champions League campaign. Benzema`s extra-time penalty winner against City on Wednesday was his 10th goal in the knockouts of UCL this season. Benzema has recorded his best personal tally this season, with 15 goals. Five came in the Group Stage, while the remaining ten have arrived in an incredible knock-out phase run which has seen him score in five successive games against PSG, Chelsea and Manchester City. ALSO READ | Real Madrid rallies past Manchester City to reach UEFA Champions League final Benzema has found the back of the net in the Champions League for 17 consecutive seasons. His first came back in 2005/06 against Rosenborg while playing for Olympique Lyon, where he scored a total of 12 times. The other 74 goals have come in a Real Madrid jersey. He opened his European account for the team with a strike against Milan on 3 November 2009. His favourite opposition in the competition are Galatasaray, PSG and Chelsea, hitting five goals against all of them.

UCL: Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema equals records of Cristiano Ronaldo, Robert Lewandowski

After one of the greatest of Champions League semi-final clashes, Manchester City will take a 4-3 lead into the second leg of their tie against Real Madrid following an extraordinary encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.

A breathtaking and relentlessly fast game, packed with chances, moments of individual brilliance and a smattering of defensive lapses, was a treat for the spectators but leaves City, who had the better of the game, with the slenderest of leads to defend at the Santiago Bernabeu next Wednesday.

"It was a fantastic game for both sides. We did many good things. Unfortunately, we conceded goals and we could not score more. But it is two games and we have another one in one week," said City manager Pep Guardiola.

Liverpool and Villarreal will certainly struggle to match the quality of this game when they meet in the other semi-final at Anfield on Wednesday. City took the lead after 94 seconds, the fastest goal scored in a Champions League semi-final, with Kevin De Bruyne`s superb diving header after Riyad Mahrez made a piercing run at the Real defence, switched inside and then delivered a killer cross.

Guardiola`s side doubled their lead in the 11th minute through the in-form Gabriel Jesus, who scored four goals in the Premier League at the weekend, collecting a pass from De Bruyne and spinning away from David Alaba before drilling home.

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It was the first time that 13-times European champions Real had conceded two goals so quickly in the Champions League and another looked on the cards. Reigning Premier League champions City were on fire, running Spanish league leaders Real ragged, but Mahrez and Phil Foden were both unable to convert promising chances.

It was a spell of the game that City may yet look back on as a missed opportunity and as so often Real found a way to get themselves back in a contest that risked running away from them. The goal came via a familiar source, the Champions League`s escape artist Karim Benzema scoring a goal out of nothing as he guided a Ferland Mendy cross into the far, bottom corner with the most delicate of steers after 33 minutes.

Guardiola could be forgiven for wondering how his team`s high-energy, high-quality football had only produced a 2-1 lead at the break but there was a similar pattern in the second half.

City restored a two-goal advantage eight minutes after the restart with veteran Fernandinho, on as a substitute for the injured John Stones, picking out Foden with a perfectly weighted cross which the England international nodded home.

Two minutes later though Fernandinho was caught out as he allowed Brazilian compatriot Vinicius Jr to break away past him on the touchline. The winger sprinted from the halfway line deep into the area before poking the ball past Ederson to make it 3-2 with an outstanding individual effort.

Yet again City found a way through. Real`s defence hesitated after Oleksandr Zinchenko went down on the edge of the box but Bernardo Silva pounced and beat Thibaut Courtois with a superb drive into the top corner in the 74th minute.

There was more drama to come as City`s Aymeric Laporte was penalised when the ball struck his arm in the area, after glancing off his head, and Benzema converted the penalty with a cheeky `Panenka` chip down the middle eight minutes from time.

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Still, City searched for more but substitute Raheem Sterling and Ruben Dias were both unable to make contact with a dangerous ball across the box and then Dias slid in again and was just inches away from a deep Mahrez cross. 
The score was to remain 4-3 but for those who wished this game could have just gone on and on there is another 90 minutes to look forward to next week.

City, yet to be crowned European champions, were left with the strange feeling of disappointment at `only` beating Real by one goal. Real`s Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti had similar mixed feelings to Guardiola after an entertaining night and left with some regrets but there was a hint of optimism in his analysis.

"As a football fan, it was a fantastic game of football. As a manager of Madrid, I have to take into consideration that we ... conceded two goals very early. But we take three goals to the Bernabeu. We now hope to get to the final."

After one of the greatest of Champions League semi-final clashes, Manchester City will take a 4-3 lead into the second leg of their tie against Real Madrid following an extraordinary encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.

After one of the greatest of Champions League semi-final clashes, Manchester City will take a 4-3 lead into the second leg of their tie against Real Madrid following an extraordinary encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday. A breathtaking and relentlessly fast game, packed with chances, moments of individual brilliance and a smattering of defensive lapses, was a treat for the spectators but leaves City, who had the better of the game, with the slenderest of leads to defend at the Santiago Bernabeu next Wednesday. "It was a fantastic game for both sides. We did many good things. Unfortunately, we conceded goals and we could not score more. But it is two games and we have another one in one week," said City manager Pep Guardiola. Liverpool and Villarreal will certainly struggle to match the quality of this game when they meet in the other semi-final at Anfield on Wednesday. City took the lead after 94 seconds, the fastest goal scored in a Champions League semi-final, with Kevin De Bruyne`s superb diving header after Riyad Mahrez made a piercing run at the Real defence, switched inside and then delivered a killer cross. Guardiola`s side doubled their lead in the 11th minute through the in-form Gabriel Jesus, who scored four goals in the Premier League at the weekend, collecting a pass from De Bruyne and spinning away from David Alaba before drilling home. Also Read: Moise Kean's late winner helps Juventus grab comeback win at Sassuolo to stay alive in race for top 4 It was the first time that 13-times European champions Real had conceded two goals so quickly in the Champions League and another looked on the cards. Reigning Premier League champions City were on fire, running Spanish league leaders Real ragged, but Mahrez and Phil Foden were both unable to convert promising chances. It was a spell of the game that City may yet look back on as a missed opportunity and as so often Real found a way to get themselves back in a contest that risked running away from them. The goal came via a familiar source, the Champions League`s escape artist Karim Benzema scoring a goal out of nothing as he guided a Ferland Mendy cross into the far, bottom corner with the most delicate of steers after 33 minutes. Guardiola could be forgiven for wondering how his team`s high-energy, high-quality football had only produced a 2-1 lead at the break but there was a similar pattern in the second half. City restored a two-goal advantage eight minutes after the restart with veteran Fernandinho, on as a substitute for the injured John Stones, picking out Foden with a perfectly weighted cross which the England international nodded home. Two minutes later though Fernandinho was caught out as he allowed Brazilian compatriot Vinicius Jr to break away past him on the touchline. The winger sprinted from the halfway line deep into the area before poking the ball past Ederson to make it 3-2 with an outstanding individual effort. Yet again City found a way through. Real`s defence hesitated after Oleksandr Zinchenko went down on the edge of the box but Bernardo Silva pounced and beat Thibaut Courtois with a superb drive into the top corner in the 74th minute. There was more drama to come as City`s Aymeric Laporte was penalised when the ball struck his arm in the area, after glancing off his head, and Benzema converted the penalty with a cheeky `Panenka` chip down the middle eight minutes from time. Also Read: Italy captain Giorgio Chiellini to retire from international football after Finalissima against Argentina Still, City searched for more but substitute Raheem Sterling and Ruben Dias were both unable to make contact with a dangerous ball across the box and then Dias slid in again and was just inches away from a deep Mahrez cross. The score was to remain 4-3 but for those who wished this game could have just gone on and on there is another 90 minutes to look forward to next week. City, yet to be crowned European champions, were left with the strange feeling of disappointment at `only` beating Real by one goal. Real`s Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti had similar mixed feelings to Guardiola after an entertaining night and left with some regrets but there was a hint of optimism in his analysis. "As a football fan, it was a fantastic game of football. As a manager of Madrid, I have to take into consideration that we ... conceded two goals very early. But we take three goals to the Bernabeu. We now hope to get to the final."

Karim Benzema scores twice but Real Madrid lose 4-3 against Manchester City in Champions League thriller

Real Madrid saw off a stirring Chelsea fightback to book their place in the Champions League semi-finals following a 3-2 defeat after extra time in a scintillating second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday to go through 5-4 on aggregate.

Chelsea had looked on course to complete an astonishing comeback after taking a 3-0 lead in their quarter-final second leg with goals from Mason Mount, Antonio Rudiger and an excellent individual effort from Timo Werner.

Yet the hosts came roaring back, with Rodrygo finishing from a superb pass by Luka Modric to level the tie 4-4 on aggregate and force extra time when Karim Benzema headed home to decide a remarkable encounter.

Real Madrid will now face either Manchester City or local rivals Atletico Madrid in the last four, with the English side taking a 1-0 lead into their quarter-final second leg in Spain on Wednesday.

It was a Champions League night for the ages at a packed stadium as a brilliant Chelsea came within 10 minutes of completing a rescue act that their manager Thomas Tuchel had said they were unlikely to accomplish.

His team took the game to Real Madrid as they looked to turn around a two-goal deficit from the first leg and it took only 15 minutes for Mount to open the scoring from a through ball behind the defence.

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Chelsea were even more aggressive after the break and scored their second in the 51st minute when Rudiger guided home a header from a Werner corner to level the tie 3-3 on aggregate.

Four minutes later, Werner found Marcos Alonso inside the area and he thrashed his finish into the top corner only to see his effort chalked off by the video assistant referee who had spotted a handball from the Spanish left back.

With the visitors on top, however, it was only a matter of time until they scored their third which arrived in the 75th minute from a brilliant piece of individual skill from Werner, who left two opponents on the ground before dispatching a precise shot past Courtois and inside the far post.

In the very next move, Kai Havertz was denied by former Chelsea keeper Courtois, who made a magnificent save to stop his close-range header. Yet just when Real looked completely out of the game, Modric worked his magic, finding substitute Rodrygo at the far post with a delightful pass with the outside of his boot that the Brazilian volleyed past Edouard Mendy in the 80th to take the game to extra time.

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That was the cue for Vinicius Jr and Benzema to show up and rescue Real Madrid from what would have been one of the biggest shocks they had ever suffered at home.

Vinicius worked his way inside from the left corner, and sent a lovely cross onto Benzema`s head, and the Frenchman bulleted it past Mendy as the ecstatic home fans exploded with joy.

"It was another incredible night, what a sweet tasting loss," Modric told Movistar Plus.

"We didn`t give up until the end. Despite going 0-3, I don`t think we played a bad game. Another night of suffering, but the important thing is that we have qualified."

Real Madrid saw off a stirring Chelsea fightback to book their place in the Champions League semi-finals following a 3-2 defeat after extra time in a scintillating second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday to go through 5-4 on aggregate.

Real Madrid saw off a stirring Chelsea fightback to book their place in the Champions League semi-finals following a 3-2 defeat after extra time in a scintillating second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday to go through 5-4 on aggregate. Chelsea had looked on course to complete an astonishing comeback after taking a 3-0 lead in their quarter-final second leg with goals from Mason Mount, Antonio Rudiger and an excellent individual effort from Timo Werner. Yet the hosts came roaring back, with Rodrygo finishing from a superb pass by Luka Modric to level the tie 4-4 on aggregate and force extra time when Karim Benzema headed home to decide a remarkable encounter. Real Madrid will now face either Manchester City or local rivals Atletico Madrid in the last four, with the English side taking a 1-0 lead into their quarter-final second leg in Spain on Wednesday. It was a Champions League night for the ages at a packed stadium as a brilliant Chelsea came within 10 minutes of completing a rescue act that their manager Thomas Tuchel had said they were unlikely to accomplish. His team took the game to Real Madrid as they looked to turn around a two-goal deficit from the first leg and it took only 15 minutes for Mount to open the scoring from a through ball behind the defence. Also Read: Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca confirms bid to buy Premier League club Chelsea Chelsea were even more aggressive after the break and scored their second in the 51st minute when Rudiger guided home a header from a Werner corner to level the tie 3-3 on aggregate. Four minutes later, Werner found Marcos Alonso inside the area and he thrashed his finish into the top corner only to see his effort chalked off by the video assistant referee who had spotted a handball from the Spanish left back. With the visitors on top, however, it was only a matter of time until they scored their third which arrived in the 75th minute from a brilliant piece of individual skill from Werner, who left two opponents on the ground before dispatching a precise shot past Courtois and inside the far post. In the very next move, Kai Havertz was denied by former Chelsea keeper Courtois, who made a magnificent save to stop his close-range header. Yet just when Real looked completely out of the game, Modric worked his magic, finding substitute Rodrygo at the far post with a delightful pass with the outside of his boot that the Brazilian volleyed past Edouard Mendy in the 80th to take the game to extra time. Also Read: I still have 'four or five years' at the top level, says PSG star Sergio Ramos That was the cue for Vinicius Jr and Benzema to show up and rescue Real Madrid from what would have been one of the biggest shocks they had ever suffered at home. Vinicius worked his way inside from the left corner, and sent a lovely cross onto Benzema`s head, and the Frenchman bulleted it past Mendy as the ecstatic home fans exploded with joy. "It was another incredible night, what a sweet tasting loss," Modric told Movistar Plus. "We didn`t give up until the end. Despite going 0-3, I don`t think we played a bad game. Another night of suffering, but the important thing is that we have qualified."

Real Madrid survive superb Chelsea comeback to reach Champions League semi-finals

A hat-trick by veteran striker Karim Benzema, including two fine headed goals in the space of three first-half minutes, earned Real Madrid a 3-1 win at reigning European champions Chelsea in their Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday.

Benzema, 34, claimed his hat-trick when he pounced on an error by Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy just after halftime to put the Spaniards in control of the tie before Tuesday's second leg in Madrid.

Kai Havertz had restored some hope to the Blues when he headed in an angled pass from Jorginho in the 40th minute to make it 2-1.

But Chelsea's chances of a comeback were undone by Mendy's mistake in the 46th minute when, outside his box, he tried to pass to Antonio Rudiger only for Benzema to intercept and steer the ball into an empty net for his 37th goal of the season.

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The France striker rocked Chelsea when he converted pinpoint crosses with headers, first from Vinicius Jr from the left in the 21st minute and then from Luka Modric on the right in the 24th, leaving Mendy with no chance on either occasion.

Benzema had looked certain to claim his hat-trick just before halftime but he fired wide with Chelsea's usually rock-solid defence looking ragged.

"They're very important goals. I'm happiest to have scored the third as I missed one in the first half and I was thinking about that chance because it's very important to score goals. Then I got another and I’m very happy," Benzema told Spanish television.

"Today we came out to win, to show we're Real Madrid. Things worked out well for us as we played well, from the first minute to the last."

The Spaniards were seeking revenge after the Londoners eliminated them in last season's semi-finals before the Blues won the trophy in Porto.

There was an early warning sign for the Londoners when Vinicius Jr cracked a shot against the bar in the 10th minute.

Chelsea sought to fight back in the second half with the best chance falling to substitute Romelu Lukaku - Chelsea's record signing who has struggled to fit in at Stamford Bridge - but he headed narrowly wide as a deflected ball dropped to him on the edge of the six-yard box in the 69th minute.

In the dying moments, Hakim Ziyech, also on as a sub, fired over from 13 yards.

Real - who have been crowned European champions 13 times but had never previously beaten Chelsea - are now in pole position to advance into the semi-finals to face either Manchester City or crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid.

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Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, who spent two years as Chelsea head coach and led the Blues to the Premier League and FA Cup double in the 2009/10 season, hailed his team's control of the game and the danger they posed on the counterattack.

"It was a good night but it is only the first half of this round," he was quoted as saying by the BBC.

Chelsea's defeat adds to a sense of turmoil with the club put up for sale by Roman Abramovich after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation."

The Russian billionaire has been sanctioned by the British government. 
Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said his team had been way off the levels he expects.

"You cannot expect a result from this kind of performance," he told reporters.

A hat-trick by veteran striker Karim Benzema, including two fine headed goals in the space of three first-half minutes, earned Real Madrid a 3-1 win at reigning European champions Chelsea in their Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday.

A hat-trick by veteran striker Karim Benzema, including two fine headed goals in the space of three first-half minutes, earned Real Madrid a 3-1 win at reigning European champions Chelsea in their Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday. Benzema, 34, claimed his hat-trick when he pounced on an error by Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy just after halftime to put the Spaniards in control of the tie before Tuesday's second leg in Madrid. Kai Havertz had restored some hope to the Blues when he headed in an angled pass from Jorginho in the 40th minute to make it 2-1. But Chelsea's chances of a comeback were undone by Mendy's mistake in the 46th minute when, outside his box, he tried to pass to Antonio Rudiger only for Benzema to intercept and steer the ball into an empty net for his 37th goal of the season. ALSO READ: Argentina legend Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' shirt likely to fetch $5.23 million at auction The France striker rocked Chelsea when he converted pinpoint crosses with headers, first from Vinicius Jr from the left in the 21st minute and then from Luka Modric on the right in the 24th, leaving Mendy with no chance on either occasion. Benzema had looked certain to claim his hat-trick just before halftime but he fired wide with Chelsea's usually rock-solid defence looking ragged. "They're very important goals. I'm happiest to have scored the third as I missed one in the first half and I was thinking about that chance because it's very important to score goals. Then I got another and I’m very happy," Benzema told Spanish television. "Today we came out to win, to show we're Real Madrid. Things worked out well for us as we played well, from the first minute to the last." The Spaniards were seeking revenge after the Londoners eliminated them in last season's semi-finals before the Blues won the trophy in Porto. There was an early warning sign for the Londoners when Vinicius Jr cracked a shot against the bar in the 10th minute. Chelsea sought to fight back in the second half with the best chance falling to substitute Romelu Lukaku - Chelsea's record signing who has struggled to fit in at Stamford Bridge - but he headed narrowly wide as a deflected ball dropped to him on the edge of the six-yard box in the 69th minute. In the dying moments, Hakim Ziyech, also on as a sub, fired over from 13 yards. Real - who have been crowned European champions 13 times but had never previously beaten Chelsea - are now in pole position to advance into the semi-finals to face either Manchester City or crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid. ALSO READ: Players must keep their cool in return leg, says Man City manager Pep Guardiola after 1-0 win vs Atletico Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, who spent two years as Chelsea head coach and led the Blues to the Premier League and FA Cup double in the 2009/10 season, hailed his team's control of the game and the danger they posed on the counterattack. "It was a good night but it is only the first half of this round," he was quoted as saying by the BBC. Chelsea's defeat adds to a sense of turmoil with the club put up for sale by Roman Abramovich after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation." The Russian billionaire has been sanctioned by the British government. Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said his team had been way off the levels he expects. "You cannot expect a result from this kind of performance," he told reporters.

UEFA Champions League: Karim Benzema scores hat-trick as Real Madrid stun Chelsea 3-1

Karim Benzema converted two penalties and missed another one as Real Madrid earned a nervy 2-1 win at Celta Vigo to put the LaLiga leaders one step closer to the title.

Real extended their lead atop the standings to 12 points over second-placed Sevilla and 15 clear of Barcelona ahead of their closest rivals'&nbsp;meeting on Sunday.

Celta were furious with referee Pablo Gonzalez, who awarded three penalties against them and disallowed an effort late in the first half after VAR intervention when Thiago Gallardo`s header almost crossed the line.

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The referee ruled that Iago Aspas, who was offside, got in the way of Real defender David Alaba and prevented him from clearing the ball.

"It looks like the ref wanted a Benzema hat-trick. The ref could just have taken the ball and kicked the penalties himself," Aspas told reporters.

Benzema scored the first from the spot after 20 minutes after Nolito tripped Eder Militao, but Nolito equalised from close range following a counter-attack soon after halftime.

Benzema had two opportunities to win the game for Real Madrid from the penalty spot, after Jeison Murillo fouled Rodrygo and Kevin Vazquez tripped Ferland Mendy.

Goalkeeper Matias Dituro saved his first effort but five minutes later the French striker sent a precise low spot-kick just inside post.

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"I don't know if we deserve to win today but winning here is important because playing here is always tough," Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said.

The Belgian made a magnificent one-handed stop from an Aspas free kick that was destined for the top corner.

"The penalties were fair, no question. There is nothing more to add," Courtois said. "They were clear fouls. Celta moved the ball well, they are intense and in the first half we didn't press well. Definitely today's are three very important points."

Karim Benzema converted two penalties and missed another one as Real Madrid earned a nervy 2-1 win at Celta Vigo to put the LaLiga leaders one step closer to the title.

Karim Benzema converted two penalties and missed another one as Real Madrid earned a nervy 2-1 win at Celta Vigo to put the LaLiga leaders one step closer to the title. Real extended their lead atop the standings to 12 points over second-placed Sevilla and 15 clear of Barcelona ahead of their closest rivals' meeting on Sunday. Celta were furious with referee Pablo Gonzalez, who awarded three penalties against them and disallowed an effort late in the first half after VAR intervention when Thiago Gallardo`s header almost crossed the line. ALSO READ: Premier League: Christian Eriksen scores as Brentford stun Chelsea 4-1 The referee ruled that Iago Aspas, who was offside, got in the way of Real defender David Alaba and prevented him from clearing the ball. "It looks like the ref wanted a Benzema hat-trick. The ref could just have taken the ball and kicked the penalties himself," Aspas told reporters. Benzema scored the first from the spot after 20 minutes after Nolito tripped Eder Militao, but Nolito equalised from close range following a counter-attack soon after halftime. Benzema had two opportunities to win the game for Real Madrid from the penalty spot, after Jeison Murillo fouled Rodrygo and Kevin Vazquez tripped Ferland Mendy. Goalkeeper Matias Dituro saved his first effort but five minutes later the French striker sent a precise low spot-kick just inside post. ALSO READ: Premier League: De Bruyne, Gundogan strike as Man City reclaim top spot from Liverpool with 2-0 win vs Burnley "I don't know if we deserve to win today but winning here is important because playing here is always tough," Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said. The Belgian made a magnificent one-handed stop from an Aspas free kick that was destined for the top corner. "The penalties were fair, no question. There is nothing more to add," Courtois said. "They were clear fouls. Celta moved the ball well, they are intense and in the first half we didn't press well. Definitely today's are three very important points."

La Liga: Karim Benzema scores brace as Real Madrid register thrilling 2-1 win against Celta Vigo

Karim Benzema scored a quickfire hat-trick as Real Madrid fought back to beat Paris St Germain 3-1 on Wednesday and move into the Champions League quarter-finals 3-2 on aggregate.

Mbappe struck before halftime to put the French side 2-0 up in the last-16 tie and they created many chances to extend their lead as they dominated the first hour of the game.

Benzema equalised in the 61st minute, however, following a bad error from&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma who mishandled the ball inside the area and gifted it to the French striker.

Roared on by a sold-out crowd at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium and with&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;in panic mode, Benzema scored again in the 76th minute from Luka Modric's pass and grabbed his third two minutes later after another costly mistake by a&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;defender to send the record 13-times European champions into the last eight.

"We lost in the first leg, we were losing at the break... It was very hard, but this is a Champions League match and we are Real Madrid," Benzema told reporters.

"The comeback came due to a matter of mental strength. It was not a mistake by Donnarumma, it was my pressure on him. When we pressure like that, we can beat anyone. Every game is a final for us and today we saw that Real Madrid is alive."

PSG&nbsp;were aggressive from the start and knew exactly how to take advantage of Real's uncoordinated attempts to put them under pressure which left space for Neymar and Mbappe to exploit.

Mbappe had an effort ruled out after the video assistant referee spotted a narrow offside before putting&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;ahead when he ran on to a fine pass by Neymar.

The French side continued to dominate possession until Benzema took advantage of Donnarumma's error, a goal&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;coach Mauricio Pochettino felt should have been disallowed.

"It's a disgrace that in 2022 a goal like that stands, it was a clear foul by Benzema on the goalkeeper," Pochettino told a news conference. "After an injustice like that the team had a mental breakdown. It's a shame."

Karim Benzema scored a quickfire hat-trick as Real Madrid fought back to beat Paris St Germain 3-1 on Wednesday and move into the Champions League quarter-finals 3-2 on aggregate.

Karim Benzema scored a quickfire hat-trick as Real Madrid fought back to beat Paris St Germain 3-1 on Wednesday and move into the Champions League quarter-finals 3-2 on aggregate. Mbappe struck before halftime to put the French side 2-0 up in the last-16 tie and they created many chances to extend their lead as they dominated the first hour of the game. Benzema equalised in the 61st minute, however, following a bad error from PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma who mishandled the ball inside the area and gifted it to the French striker. Roared on by a sold-out crowd at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium and with PSG in panic mode, Benzema scored again in the 76th minute from Luka Modric's pass and grabbed his third two minutes later after another costly mistake by a PSG defender to send the record 13-times European champions into the last eight. "We lost in the first leg, we were losing at the break... It was very hard, but this is a Champions League match and we are Real Madrid," Benzema told reporters. "The comeback came due to a matter of mental strength. It was not a mistake by Donnarumma, it was my pressure on him. When we pressure like that, we can beat anyone. Every game is a final for us and today we saw that Real Madrid is alive." PSG were aggressive from the start and knew exactly how to take advantage of Real's uncoordinated attempts to put them under pressure which left space for Neymar and Mbappe to exploit. Mbappe had an effort ruled out after the video assistant referee spotted a narrow offside before putting PSG ahead when he ran on to a fine pass by Neymar. The French side continued to dominate possession until Benzema took advantage of Donnarumma's error, a goal PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino felt should have been disallowed. "It's a disgrace that in 2022 a goal like that stands, it was a clear foul by Benzema on the goalkeeper," Pochettino told a news conference. "After an injustice like that the team had a mental breakdown. It's a shame."

Karim Benzema hat-trick inspires Real Madrid to comeback win over PSG, Messi & Co. out of UCL

Real Madrid strike duo Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr both scored a brace to give the LaLiga leaders a 4-1 home win over Valencia on Saturday, putting them back on track after last weekend`s disappointing loss to Getafe.

Benzema opened the scoring shortly before halftime from the penalty spot, his 300th goal in all competitions for Real. He is the fourth player in the club`s history to reach the milestone after Alfredo di Stefano (308), Raul (323) and Cristiano Ronaldo (450). 
Fan favourite Vinicius, who missed Real`s last two games after testing positive for COVID-19, came back with a vengeance and scored twice early in the second half.

Goncalo Guedes scored Valencia`s consolation goal in the 76th minute with a header on the rebound after Thibaut Courtois had saved his penalty kick. Benzema sealed the emphatic win two minutes from the end with a low shot from inside the box.

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"It`s an honour and I`m proud to reach 301 goals with Real Madrid because they are the best club in the world," Benzema told reporters. "We played a great game for ourselves but also for the fans, who deserved it after the loss to Getafe." 
Real Madrid extended their lead at the top of the standings to 49 points from 21 games, eight points ahead of Sevilla who have two games in hand and host Getafe on Sunday.

It took a while for Carlo Ancelotti`s team to warm up on a freezing winter night at Santiago Bernabeu, where the fans are becoming used to gathering between scaffolding as Real Madrid continue the 800-million-euro ($908.72 million) renovation of their home. 
After a flat beginning, Real found their rhythm late in the first half as Luka Modric struck a shot that rattled the crossbar from the edge of the box.

The hosts kept pressing until they found the opener after Casemiro fell inside the area when challenged by defender Omar Alderete. Benzema stepped up and rifled the ball into the top right corner beyond Jasper Cillessen.

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Real kept up their pace after halftime and Vinicius scored twice in nine minutes, first after a beautiful combination with Benzema, clearing two defenders before finishing all alone in the six-yard-box. His second came from tapping in a rebound on the goal line following an effort from Marco Asensio.

Benzema`s goals meant he stayed clear at the top of the scoring charts in LaLiga this season with 17, followed by Vinicius on 12. Together they have scored 29 of Real`s 45 league goals this campaign.

Real Madrid strike duo Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr both scored a brace to give the LaLiga leaders a 4-1 home win over Valencia on Saturday, putting them back on track after last weekend`s disappointing loss to Getafe.

Real Madrid strike duo Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr both scored a brace to give the LaLiga leaders a 4-1 home win over Valencia on Saturday, putting them back on track after last weekend`s disappointing loss to Getafe. Benzema opened the scoring shortly before halftime from the penalty spot, his 300th goal in all competitions for Real. He is the fourth player in the club`s history to reach the milestone after Alfredo di Stefano (308), Raul (323) and Cristiano Ronaldo (450). Fan favourite Vinicius, who missed Real`s last two games after testing positive for COVID-19, came back with a vengeance and scored twice early in the second half. Goncalo Guedes scored Valencia`s consolation goal in the 76th minute with a header on the rebound after Thibaut Courtois had saved his penalty kick. Benzema sealed the emphatic win two minutes from the end with a low shot from inside the box. Read Also | ISL 2021-22: ATK Mohun Bagan's clash against Odisha FC postponed due to Covid-19 "It`s an honour and I`m proud to reach 301 goals with Real Madrid because they are the best club in the world," Benzema told reporters. "We played a great game for ourselves but also for the fans, who deserved it after the loss to Getafe." Real Madrid extended their lead at the top of the standings to 49 points from 21 games, eight points ahead of Sevilla who have two games in hand and host Getafe on Sunday. It took a while for Carlo Ancelotti`s team to warm up on a freezing winter night at Santiago Bernabeu, where the fans are becoming used to gathering between scaffolding as Real Madrid continue the 800-million-euro ($908.72 million) renovation of their home. After a flat beginning, Real found their rhythm late in the first half as Luka Modric struck a shot that rattled the crossbar from the edge of the box. The hosts kept pressing until they found the opener after Casemiro fell inside the area when challenged by defender Omar Alderete. Benzema stepped up and rifled the ball into the top right corner beyond Jasper Cillessen. Read Also | Borussia Moenchengladbach score two goals in four minutes to stun Bayern Munich in Bundesliga Real kept up their pace after halftime and Vinicius scored twice in nine minutes, first after a beautiful combination with Benzema, clearing two defenders before finishing all alone in the six-yard-box. His second came from tapping in a rebound on the goal line following an effort from Marco Asensio. Benzema`s goals meant he stayed clear at the top of the scoring charts in LaLiga this season with 17, followed by Vinicius on 12. Together they have scored 29 of Real`s 45 league goals this campaign.

Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr shine as Real Madrid thrash Valencia 4-1 in La Liga

Robert Lewandowski might have missed out on the 2021 Ballon d'Or, finishing second behind the legendary Lionel Messi but he has had a fabulous 2021. The Bayern Munich striker has continued his goal-scoring exploits last season in the ongoing season and has been unstoppable for the Bundesliga leaders.

Lewandowski is on the top of the goal-scoring charts in the year 2021 in club football as far as top five leagues and major European competitions - Champions League, and Europa League are concerned. The Polish star scored his 69th goal across all competitions for club and country in 2021 to match Cristiano Ronaldo's record of 69 goals in a calendar year.

Lionel Messi still tops the elite list with a stunning 91 goals to his name in a calendar year in 2012. While Lewandowski is the top goal-scorer of 2021 across all competitions for club and country, he also leads the goal-scoring charts when taking into account the top five football leagues in the world and other major club competitions, including the Champions League and the UEFA league.

Top 5 goal-scorers of 2021 across all club competitions (Top 5 leagues only)

1) Robert Lewandowski - 56 goals

The Bayern Munich striker has been unstoppable this season as he continues to shatter records with his goal-scoring exploits. The Polish star, who finished second in the Ballon d'Or 2021 awards, has scored 56 goals in 45 appearances across major club competitions this year. He averages a brilliant 68 minutes per goal and has been instrumental in keeping Bayern on top of the Bundesliga table.

2) Erling Haaland - 43 goals&nbsp;

Erling Haaland is taking the Bundesliga by a storm and seems ready for a switch to a big club next season. Haaland has been exceptional for Borussia Dortmund with 43 goals in 42 matches for the Bundesliga giants. Haaland has become one of the most sought-after youngsters in the league and it remains to be seen where he will head to after his Dortmund contract ends next year.

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3) Kylian Mbappe - 41 goals&nbsp;

The French striker had proved his goal-scoring pedigree in the 2018 FIFA World Cup where he helped France lift the title with a campaign to remember. A quality striker and one of the most talented youngsters in world football, Mbappe has achieved a lot in a short career so far. He continued to tear it in the Ligue 1, Champions League and other competitions this season for PSG with a whopping 41 goals in 52 matches. He is the third-highest goal-scorer of the year as far as the top five football leagues are concerned.

4) Mohammed Salah - 37 goals&nbsp;

The Liverpool winger often doesn't get the credit for his consistency. He has been a force to reckon with ever since joining Liverpool and has been scoring goals one season after another. Salah continued his heroics in the year 2021 with 37 goals in 51 appearances for the Premier League giants. Despite being one of the best players in the Premier League over the last few years, Salah could only finish seventh in the Ballon d'Or rankings this year.

5)&nbsp;Karim Benzema - 36 goals

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema continues to shine at the Bernabeu and has almost single-handedly shouldered the goal-scoring responsibilities ever since Cristiano Ronaldo's departure from the club in 2018. Benzema notched up 36 goals in 33 appearances for Real Madrid across all competitions in 2021 and is currently fifth on the list pf the top goal-scorers of the year.

&nbsp;

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Robert Lewandowski might have missed out on the 2021 Ballon d'Or, finishing second behind the legendary Lionel Messi but he has had a fabulous 2021. The Bayern Munich striker has continued his goal-scoring exploits last season in the ongoing season and has been unstoppable for the Bundesliga leaders.

Robert Lewandowski might have missed out on the 2021 Ballon d'Or, finishing second behind the legendary Lionel Messi but he has had a fabulous 2021. The Bayern Munich striker has continued his goal-scoring exploits last season in the ongoing season and has been unstoppable for the Bundesliga leaders. Lewandowski is on the top of the goal-scoring charts in the year 2021 in club football as far as top five leagues and major European competitions - Champions League, and Europa League are concerned. The Polish star scored his 69th goal across all competitions for club and country in 2021 to match Cristiano Ronaldo's record of 69 goals in a calendar year. Lionel Messi still tops the elite list with a stunning 91 goals to his name in a calendar year in 2012. While Lewandowski is the top goal-scorer of 2021 across all competitions for club and country, he also leads the goal-scoring charts when taking into account the top five football leagues in the world and other major club competitions, including the Champions League and the UEFA league. Top 5 goal-scorers of 2021 across all club competitions (Top 5 leagues only) 1) Robert Lewandowski - 56 goals The Bayern Munich striker has been unstoppable this season as he continues to shatter records with his goal-scoring exploits. The Polish star, who finished second in the Ballon d'Or 2021 awards, has scored 56 goals in 45 appearances across major club competitions this year. He averages a brilliant 68 minutes per goal and has been instrumental in keeping Bayern on top of the Bundesliga table. 2) Erling Haaland - 43 goals Erling Haaland is taking the Bundesliga by a storm and seems ready for a switch to a big club next season. Haaland has been exceptional for Borussia Dortmund with 43 goals in 42 matches for the Bundesliga giants. Haaland has become one of the most sought-after youngsters in the league and it remains to be seen where he will head to after his Dortmund contract ends next year. Also Read: Lionel Messi to Cristiano Ronaldo: A look at last five Ballon d'Or winners 3) Kylian Mbappe - 41 goals The French striker had proved his goal-scoring pedigree in the 2018 FIFA World Cup where he helped France lift the title with a campaign to remember. A quality striker and one of the most talented youngsters in world football, Mbappe has achieved a lot in a short career so far. He continued to tear it in the Ligue 1, Champions League and other competitions this season for PSG with a whopping 41 goals in 52 matches. He is the third-highest goal-scorer of the year as far as the top five football leagues are concerned. 4) Mohammed Salah - 37 goals The Liverpool winger often doesn't get the credit for his consistency. He has been a force to reckon with ever since joining Liverpool and has been scoring goals one season after another. Salah continued his heroics in the year 2021 with 37 goals in 51 appearances for the Premier League giants. Despite being one of the best players in the Premier League over the last few years, Salah could only finish seventh in the Ballon d'Or rankings this year. 5) Karim Benzema - 36 goals Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema continues to shine at the Bernabeu and has almost single-handedly shouldered the goal-scoring responsibilities ever since Cristiano Ronaldo's departure from the club in 2018. Benzema notched up 36 goals in 33 appearances for Real Madrid across all competitions in 2021 and is currently fifth on the list pf the top goal-scorers of the year.

Robert Lewandowski to Karim Benzema: Top five goal-scorers across club competitions in 2021

A Court in Versailles on Wednesday found France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema guilty of complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape and sentenced him to a one-year suspended jail term. He was also fined 75,000 euros ($84,170).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrids-karim-benzema-stands-trial-over-sex-tape-affair-422395">Real Madrid's Karim Benzema stands trial over sex tape affair</a>

Benzema, who had denied any wrongdoing, was not in court. He is due to play for the Spanish club against Moldovan side Sheriff Tiraspol later in the day. Prosecutors had argued that Benzema had encouraged Valbuena to pay a suspected group of blackmailers in order to keep the sexually explicit tape out of the public eye. 
($1 = 0.8910 euros)

A Court in Versailles on Wednesday found France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema guilty of complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape and sentenced him to a one-year suspended jail term.

A Court in Versailles on Wednesday found France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema guilty of complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape and sentenced him to a one-year suspended jail term. He was also fined 75,000 euros ($84,170). ALSO READ | Real Madrid's Karim Benzema stands trial over sex tape affair Benzema, who had denied any wrongdoing, was not in court. He is due to play for the Spanish club against Moldovan side Sheriff Tiraspol later in the day. Prosecutors had argued that Benzema had encouraged Valbuena to pay a suspected group of blackmailers in order to keep the sexually explicit tape out of the public eye. ($1 = 0.8910 euros)

Sex tape case: France and Real Madrid star Karim Benzema gets one-year suspended jail term

Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe were on target again in a sharp second-half performance as France completed their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 away win against Finland on Tuesday.

The French attack stuttered until Benzema came on as a second-half substitute and Mbappe set him up for the opener.

Mbappe then scored France`s second as the world champions, who had already qualified for Qatar 2022 after Saturday`s 8-0 demolition of Kazakhstan, finished Group D with 18 points from eight games.

Finland, who were hoping to secure a playoff spot, ended up third on 11 points, one behind Ukraine who beat Bosnia 2-0 away to take second place.

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"We wanted to finish on a high and we`re happy we did it. Now we`re looking forward to the World Cup. With the team we have it`s natural to think about (winning) it," said Benzema.

France have now scored in their last 18 games, matching a record that dates back to 1999-2000.

Finland were the last team to manage a clean sheet against Les Bleus and it seemed they may repeat the feat, but Benzema`s entrance in the 57th minute signalled the end of their hopes.

Didier Deschamps had made five changes to the team who hammered Kazakhstan, with Benzema and Kingsley Coman on the bench.

The duo's absence was clearly felt as Les Bleus struggled to create chances against a compact Finland team.

Shortly before halftime, Leo Dubois picked up a thigh injury and was replaced by Benjamin Pavard.

Finland started the second half with poise but the French defence stayed alert and the visitors stepped up a gear when Benzema replaced Moussa Diaby.

They were rewarded in the 66th with Benzema finding the back of the net with a deflected low shot after a neat one-two with Mbappe, who found the Real Madrid striker with a back heel.

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Ten minutes later, Mbappe outsprinted three Finnish players on the left flank before finishing with a superb curled shot into the far corner of the net for his 24th international goal.

It was Mbappe`s fifth goal in two games after he bagged four against Kazakhstan.

"There was more at stake for Finland than for us tonight but we did what we had to do," said Deschamps. "It was a very positive year for France, except for those fatal 10 minutes (in the last 16 of the European championship against Switzerland)." 
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Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe were on target again in a sharp second-half performance as France completed their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 away win against Finland on Tuesday.

Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe were on target again in a sharp second-half performance as France completed their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 away win against Finland on Tuesday. The French attack stuttered until Benzema came on as a second-half substitute and Mbappe set him up for the opener. Mbappe then scored France`s second as the world champions, who had already qualified for Qatar 2022 after Saturday`s 8-0 demolition of Kazakhstan, finished Group D with 18 points from eight games. Finland, who were hoping to secure a playoff spot, ended up third on 11 points, one behind Ukraine who beat Bosnia 2-0 away to take second place. ALSO READ: Gareth Southgate ready for contract talks after England seal World Cup spot "We wanted to finish on a high and we`re happy we did it. Now we`re looking forward to the World Cup. With the team we have it`s natural to think about (winning) it," said Benzema. France have now scored in their last 18 games, matching a record that dates back to 1999-2000. Finland were the last team to manage a clean sheet against Les Bleus and it seemed they may repeat the feat, but Benzema`s entrance in the 57th minute signalled the end of their hopes. Didier Deschamps had made five changes to the team who hammered Kazakhstan, with Benzema and Kingsley Coman on the bench. The duo's absence was clearly felt as Les Bleus struggled to create chances against a compact Finland team. Shortly before halftime, Leo Dubois picked up a thigh injury and was replaced by Benjamin Pavard. Finland started the second half with poise but the French defence stayed alert and the visitors stepped up a gear when Benzema replaced Moussa Diaby. They were rewarded in the 66th with Benzema finding the back of the net with a deflected low shot after a neat one-two with Mbappe, who found the Real Madrid striker with a back heel. ALSO READ | Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy charged with 2 more counts of rape Ten minutes later, Mbappe outsprinted three Finnish players on the left flank before finishing with a superb curled shot into the far corner of the net for his 24th international goal. It was Mbappe`s fifth goal in two games after he bagged four against Kazakhstan. "There was more at stake for Finland than for us tonight but we did what we had to do," said Deschamps. "It was a very positive year for France, except for those fatal 10 minutes (in the last 16 of the European championship against Switzerland)."

World Cup qualifier: Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema inspire France to 2-0 win against Finland

France striker Karim Benzema "will not be excluded" from selection for the national team if a guilty verdict is delivered against him in an ongoing sex tape trial, according to French football federation president Noel Le Graet.

In an interview published by French daily newspaper Le Parisien, Le Graet said any decision on who is selected for national duty would remain the decision of coach Didier Deschamps.

Benzema was excluded from the France squad for five years until being recalled last May after he was accused of involvement in the blackmail of fellow player Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape.

A verdict in the trial will be announced on November 24.

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"The coach will always be the man who chooses the side and Benzema will not be excluded in the case of a guilty verdict," Le Great said.&nbsp;

"It's up to Didier (Deschamps) to decide on a sporting basis."&nbsp;

Benzema is expected to line up when reigning world&nbsp;champions France take on Kazakhstan in Paris on Saturday in a qualifier for the 2022 World Cup.

The prosecution have demanded a 10-month suspended sentence for Benzema, whose lawyers have claimed the prosecution failed to provide evidence to convict the star of complicity to blackmail.

France striker Karim Benzema "will not be excluded" from selection for the national team if a guilty verdict is delivered against him in an ongoing sex tape trial, according to French football federation president Noel Le Graet.

France striker Karim Benzema "will not be excluded" from selection for the national team if a guilty verdict is delivered against him in an ongoing sex tape trial, according to French football federation president Noel Le Graet. In an interview published by French daily newspaper Le Parisien, Le Graet said any decision on who is selected for national duty would remain the decision of coach Didier Deschamps. Benzema was excluded from the France squad for five years until being recalled last May after he was accused of involvement in the blackmail of fellow player Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape. A verdict in the trial will be announced on November 24. ALSO READ | Brazil's most-capped player Formiga to retire from international football "The coach will always be the man who chooses the side and Benzema will not be excluded in the case of a guilty verdict," Le Great said. "It's up to Didier (Deschamps) to decide on a sporting basis." Benzema is expected to line up when reigning world champions France take on Kazakhstan in Paris on Saturday in a qualifier for the 2022 World Cup. The prosecution have demanded a 10-month suspended sentence for Benzema, whose lawyers have claimed the prosecution failed to provide evidence to convict the star of complicity to blackmail.

Karim Benzema eligible for France even if guilty in sex tape trial: Federation boss

Lawyers for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema on Friday dismissed charges against him over an attempt to blackmail fellow player Mathieu Valbuena with a sex tape, saying the prosecution had been driven by media interest in the case.

A verdict in the trial will be announced on November 24.

On the last day of hearings, being held in Versailles outside Paris, Benzema's lawyers claimed the prosecution had failed to provide evidence to convict the star of complicity in an attempt to blackmail.

"One can ask what really interests French people in this case? Sex? Money? Football? Not the judicial element in any case," lawyer Antoine Vey told the court, adding that the prosecution's case had been built around Valbuena's "feelings".

Addressing the judge, he added: "It's never too late to do some law. You are the final safeguard."

Benzema's other lawyer, Sylvain Cormier, criticised a "media-judicial circus".

The prosecution demanded a 10-month suspended sentence on Thursday and a fine of 75,000 euros ($87,000) for the 33-year-old France international, who has not appeared during the three days of hearings which began on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Benzema, who is expected to play this weekend against Barcelona in the Clasico, is one of five people on trial over the 2015 extortion attempt over a sexually explicit video that was stolen from Valbuena's phone.

Testifying on the opening day of the trial Wednesday, Valbuena said the affair -- which saw him and Benzema excluded from the national team -- had left him feeling "frightened" and fearful for his career.

Benzema claims he was only trying to help his fellow player when he approached him about the sex tape at the French team's training centre in October 2015 and told him he could help him find someone to "manage" the issue of the video.

Prosecutors claim Benzema was working with the other accused, including a childhood friend from his hometown Lyon.&nbsp;

In a wiretapped conversation, he told the friend who is accused of acting as a middlemen for the suspected blackmailers that "he's not taking us seriously".

The prosecution claims this shows Benzema was complicit, but his lawyer said Friday the exchange showed the footballer was "not an example of total contrition" during the conversation.

"We never said he was being kind... but it is not a criminal offence," Vey told the court.

In an interview with investigators in 2015, Benzema denied involvement, asking why he would get involved.

"I have enough money. I don't need it," he said.&nbsp;

Lawyers for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema on Friday dismissed charges against him over an attempt to blackmail fellow player Mathieu Valbuena with a sex tape, saying the prosecution had been driven by media interest in the case.

Lawyers for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema on Friday dismissed charges against him over an attempt to blackmail fellow player Mathieu Valbuena with a sex tape, saying the prosecution had been driven by media interest in the case. A verdict in the trial will be announced on November 24. On the last day of hearings, being held in Versailles outside Paris, Benzema's lawyers claimed the prosecution had failed to provide evidence to convict the star of complicity in an attempt to blackmail. "One can ask what really interests French people in this case? Sex? Money? Football? Not the judicial element in any case," lawyer Antoine Vey told the court, adding that the prosecution's case had been built around Valbuena's "feelings". Addressing the judge, he added: "It's never too late to do some law. You are the final safeguard." Benzema's other lawyer, Sylvain Cormier, criticised a "media-judicial circus". The prosecution demanded a 10-month suspended sentence on Thursday and a fine of 75,000 euros ($87,000) for the 33-year-old France international, who has not appeared during the three days of hearings which began on Wednesday. Benzema, who is expected to play this weekend against Barcelona in the Clasico, is one of five people on trial over the 2015 extortion attempt over a sexually explicit video that was stolen from Valbuena's phone. Testifying on the opening day of the trial Wednesday, Valbuena said the affair -- which saw him and Benzema excluded from the national team -- had left him feeling "frightened" and fearful for his career. Benzema claims he was only trying to help his fellow player when he approached him about the sex tape at the French team's training centre in October 2015 and told him he could help him find someone to "manage" the issue of the video. Prosecutors claim Benzema was working with the other accused, including a childhood friend from his hometown Lyon. In a wiretapped conversation, he told the friend who is accused of acting as a middlemen for the suspected blackmailers that "he's not taking us seriously". The prosecution claims this shows Benzema was complicit, but his lawyer said Friday the exchange showed the footballer was "not an example of total contrition" during the conversation. "We never said he was being kind... but it is not a criminal offence," Vey told the court. In an interview with investigators in 2015, Benzema denied involvement, asking why he would get involved. "I have enough money. I don't need it," he said.

Karim Benzema's lawyers criticise 'sex tape' trial on last day of hearings

France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema went on trial in absentia on Wednesday, charged with complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape.

Prosecutors allege that Benzema, who has denied wrongdoing, encouraged Valbuena to pay a suspected group of blackmailers in order to keep the sexually explicit tape out of the public eye.

They say Valbuena received a first call threatening to expose the tape in June, 2015 while at the French squad's training centre in Clairefontaine, west of Paris.

Valbuena told the court in nearby Versailles on Wednesday that it was clear the caller wanted money, and that the blackmail attempt left him fearing for his career and place in the national squad.

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Benzema was not in the court for the start of the trial because of professional obligations, said his lawyer, who has described the case against him as "absurd".

The 33-year-old, who has played 92 times for his country and was recalled to the France squad for this year's European Championship, played in Ukraine on Tuesday night in his club's 5-0 Champions League group stage win over Shakhtar Donetsk.

Benzema and Valbuena both lost their places in the national team in the wake of the scandal, dubbed the "sex tape affair".

According to prosecutors, Valbuena's anonymous first caller said he wanted to "come to an arrangement" with Valbuena and told him to name an intermediary.

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The blackmailers initially turned to former French international Djibril Cisse to persuade Valbuena to pay the hush money. Instead, Cisse warned him of the extortion plot, Valbuena said.

An undercover police officer posed on Valbuena's behalf as a middleman and recorded phone conversations between June and October, 2015 that helped identify the alleged blackmailers, according to prosecutors.

Benzema was recruited by the alleged blackmailers to encourage Valbuena to pay as his teammate stalled, they allege.

Among Benzema's co-accused are his childhood friend Karim Zenati, who allegedly acted as an intermediary, and Mustapha Zouaoui, one of the suspected architects of the scam.

Zouaoui told reporters he had received the sex tape and shared it with Benzema and other members of the French team, but said there had never been an attempt to extort money from Valbuena. "We kept the tape for ourselves," he said before the trial opened.

Benzema, who is accused of complicity to attempted blackmail, faces up to five years in jail and a 75,000 euro ($87,000) fine if convicted.

His four co-accused face charges of attempted blackmail.

France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema went on trial in absentia on Wednesday, charged with complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape.

France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema went on trial in absentia on Wednesday, charged with complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape. Prosecutors allege that Benzema, who has denied wrongdoing, encouraged Valbuena to pay a suspected group of blackmailers in order to keep the sexually explicit tape out of the public eye. They say Valbuena received a first call threatening to expose the tape in June, 2015 while at the French squad's training centre in Clairefontaine, west of Paris. Valbuena told the court in nearby Versailles on Wednesday that it was clear the caller wanted money, and that the blackmail attempt left him fearing for his career and place in the national squad. IN PICS | How much Cristiano Ronaldo earns per week? Mind-boggling salary of Manchester United star and his net worth Benzema was not in the court for the start of the trial because of professional obligations, said his lawyer, who has described the case against him as "absurd". The 33-year-old, who has played 92 times for his country and was recalled to the France squad for this year's European Championship, played in Ukraine on Tuesday night in his club's 5-0 Champions League group stage win over Shakhtar Donetsk. Benzema and Valbuena both lost their places in the national team in the wake of the scandal, dubbed the "sex tape affair". According to prosecutors, Valbuena's anonymous first caller said he wanted to "come to an arrangement" with Valbuena and told him to name an intermediary. ALSO READ | 'French footballer Kylian Mbappe will be godfather of one of the panda twins born at Beauval zoo The blackmailers initially turned to former French international Djibril Cisse to persuade Valbuena to pay the hush money. Instead, Cisse warned him of the extortion plot, Valbuena said. An undercover police officer posed on Valbuena's behalf as a middleman and recorded phone conversations between June and October, 2015 that helped identify the alleged blackmailers, according to prosecutors. Benzema was recruited by the alleged blackmailers to encourage Valbuena to pay as his teammate stalled, they allege. Among Benzema's co-accused are his childhood friend Karim Zenati, who allegedly acted as an intermediary, and Mustapha Zouaoui, one of the suspected architects of the scam. Zouaoui told reporters he had received the sex tape and shared it with Benzema and other members of the French team, but said there had never been an attempt to extort money from Valbuena. "We kept the tape for ourselves," he said before the trial opened. Benzema, who is accused of complicity to attempted blackmail, faces up to five years in jail and a 75,000 euro ($87,000) fine if convicted. His four co-accused face charges of attempted blackmail.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema stands trial over sex tape affair

Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe starred for France as Les Bleus produced another stunning comeback to beat Spain 2-1 and win their first UEFA Nations League title at San Siro in Milan on Sunday.

These sides were both involved in semi-finals that thrilled from the off, but this occasion delivered a more cagey opening 45 minutes. Karim Benzema skipped around Unai Simon but failed to cut the ball back for a team-mate early on while Spain hoarded possession thereafter without threatening. Les Bleus did suffer a setback before the break, though, as Raphael Varane was forced off injured.

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The pattern continued until the game exploded into life in the 64th minute when Benzema`s cross was thumped against the underside of the bar by Theo Hernandez. Just 40 seconds later, however, France found themselves behind as Sergio Busquets` through ball was driven across Hugo Lloris by Mikel Oyarzabal. The touchpaper had been lit.

Indeed, La Roja`s joy proved short-lived, because Benzema curled a sensational effort into the far corner from 25 metres within two minutes. The question now was whether Didier Deschamps'&nbsp;men could repeat the trick they had performed against Belgium in the last four when they had come from two behind to win.

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The answer arrived on 80 minutes as the reigning world champions completed their second successive fightback. Kylian Mbappe timed his run on to Hernandez's pass to perfection and swept the winner underneath Unai Simon, though it required two fine late saves from Lloris to seal the silverware.

Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe starred for France as Les Bleus produced another stunning comeback to beat Spain 2-1 and win their first UEFA Nations League title at San Siro in Milan on Sunday.

Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe starred for France as Les Bleus produced another stunning comeback to beat Spain 2-1 and win their first UEFA Nations League title at San Siro in Milan on Sunday. These sides were both involved in semi-finals that thrilled from the off, but this occasion delivered a more cagey opening 45 minutes. Karim Benzema skipped around Unai Simon but failed to cut the ball back for a team-mate early on while Spain hoarded possession thereafter without threatening. Les Bleus did suffer a setback before the break, though, as Raphael Varane was forced off injured. ALSO READ: Nations League: Young Spain face France's forward threat in final The pattern continued until the game exploded into life in the 64th minute when Benzema`s cross was thumped against the underside of the bar by Theo Hernandez. Just 40 seconds later, however, France found themselves behind as Sergio Busquets` through ball was driven across Hugo Lloris by Mikel Oyarzabal. The touchpaper had been lit. Indeed, La Roja`s joy proved short-lived, because Benzema curled a sensational effort into the far corner from 25 metres within two minutes. The question now was whether Didier Deschamps' men could repeat the trick they had performed against Belgium in the last four when they had come from two behind to win. ALSO READ: Nations League: Nicolo Barella's spectacular goal helps Italy edge Belgium 2-1 to finish third The answer arrived on 80 minutes as the reigning world champions completed their second successive fightback. Kylian Mbappe timed his run on to Hernandez's pass to perfection and swept the winner underneath Unai Simon, though it required two fine late saves from Lloris to seal the silverware.

Nations League: France clinch title after Karim Benzema, Kylian Mbappe shine in comeback against Spain

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti struggled to explain how his side was beaten 2-1 at home by rank outsiders Sheriff Tiraspol in the Champions League on Tuesday after dominating every aspect of the match with the exception of the scoreline.

Luxembourg midfielder Sebastien Thill scored an outstanding late half volley to snatch an unlikely victory for Sheriff, who reached the Champions League group stage for the first time this season after winning four qualifying rounds.

Sheriff took the lead against the run of play with a header from Jasurbek Yakhshiboev while Karim Benzema equalised for the 13-times European champions with a second-half penalty before Thill secured the victory.

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Real had 30 shots on goal and 11 on target while keeping 67% of possession and winning 13 corners while the Moldovan side had only four attempts, scoring two of their three shots on target and failing to win a single corner.

"Everything went well for them while everything we did turned out badly," Ancelotti told reporters after his side's first defeat of the season.

"More than worried we are sad. We played with intensity and commitment but lost due to the finest details. The team played well, we could have been sharper in the area but it's difficult to explain what happened.

"The small details cost us the game and we should learn from that in the future. But this was a defeat we did not deserve."

Sheriff, who were founded in 1997, are top of Group D with six points, after beating Shakhtar Donetsk 2-0 in their opening game.

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"I dreamed of winning in the Bernabeu, I have always followed Madrid they are the most successful team in the Champions League so to beat them at home is a huge achievement," said Sheriff defender Gustavo Dulanto.

"There's still a long way to go and we can't relax because there's no logic in football, as today's result shows. We came here with the knife between our teeth but we can only look forward to the next game."

Captain Frank Castaneda revealed his side had fancied their chances before kickoff.

"We knew we could win here and before the game, we had it in our heads that we could and as captain I tried to motivate the team and tell them we could do it because this is football," he said.

"Real Madrid is an historic team but on the pitch it's 11 players versus 11 and we came here to get the victory and got it."

Match-winner Thill added: "We're so happy today. We played a really good game. The side was so brave with how we played and luckily enough I was able to score a bit of a stunner."

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti struggled to explain how his side was beaten 2-1 at home by rank outsiders Sheriff Tiraspol in the Champions League on Tuesday after dominating every aspect of the match with the exception of the scoreline.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti struggled to explain how his side was beaten 2-1 at home by rank outsiders Sheriff Tiraspol in the Champions League on Tuesday after dominating every aspect of the match with the exception of the scoreline. Luxembourg midfielder Sebastien Thill scored an outstanding late half volley to snatch an unlikely victory for Sheriff, who reached the Champions League group stage for the first time this season after winning four qualifying rounds. Sheriff took the lead against the run of play with a header from Jasurbek Yakhshiboev while Karim Benzema equalised for the 13-times European champions with a second-half penalty before Thill secured the victory. ALSO READ | Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka ruled out for three months with knee injury Real had 30 shots on goal and 11 on target while keeping 67% of possession and winning 13 corners while the Moldovan side had only four attempts, scoring two of their three shots on target and failing to win a single corner. "Everything went well for them while everything we did turned out badly," Ancelotti told reporters after his side's first defeat of the season. "More than worried we are sad. We played with intensity and commitment but lost due to the finest details. The team played well, we could have been sharper in the area but it's difficult to explain what happened. "The small details cost us the game and we should learn from that in the future. But this was a defeat we did not deserve." Sheriff, who were founded in 1997, are top of Group D with six points, after beating Shakhtar Donetsk 2-0 in their opening game. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi scores maiden goal as PSG take sweet revenge on Man City in Champions League "I dreamed of winning in the Bernabeu, I have always followed Madrid they are the most successful team in the Champions League so to beat them at home is a huge achievement," said Sheriff defender Gustavo Dulanto. "There's still a long way to go and we can't relax because there's no logic in football, as today's result shows. We came here with the knife between our teeth but we can only look forward to the next game." Captain Frank Castaneda revealed his side had fancied their chances before kickoff. "We knew we could win here and before the game, we had it in our heads that we could and as captain I tried to motivate the team and tell them we could do it because this is football," he said. "Real Madrid is an historic team but on the pitch it's 11 players versus 11 and we came here to get the victory and got it." Match-winner Thill added: "We're so happy today. We played a really good game. The side was so brave with how we played and luckily enough I was able to score a bit of a stunner."

'We didn't deserve to lose', says Ancelotti after Real stunned by Sheriff

Real Madrid`s Karim Benzema netted a hat-trick as they capped their return to the refurbished Santiago Bernabeu stadium with a thrilling 5-2 comeback win over Celta Vigo in LaLiga on Sunday. 
 
The Frenchman was unplayable at times as Madrid were reunited with their fans for the first time since March 1, 2020. 
 
They played the whole of last season at reserve team Castilla`s Alfredo Di Stefano ground at their training complex. 
 
"I feel good, I`ve got the support of the coach, the president, the players and the crowd," Benzema said. 
 
"It`s a special night for us with the fans here and the atmosphere. It was a little strange to be playing in front of fans again, but they got right behind us. We need their support and they gave us everything today." 
 
The crowd were, however, stunned when Santi Mina latched onto a defensive mistake to put the visitors ahead after four minutes. 
 
Madrid recovered well, pinning Celta back, and the pressure eventually told after 24 minutes as Benzema equalised with his first goal following a Federico Valverde cutback. 
 
Franco Cervi put Celta back in front seven minutes later against the run of play from a lightning counter-attack and they went in ahead at the break. 
 
But Benzema, who had what he thought was an equaliser disallowed for offside just before halftime, headed Real level two minutes after the restart and from then on there was only going to be one winner. 
 
The forward teed up Vinicius Junior whose composed finish gave Carlo Ancelotti`s side the lead for the first time. 
 
New signing Eduardo Camavinga came off the bench to score on his debut, with the France midfielder tucking the ball home from close range, before Benzema completed his treble with a penalty three minutes from time to delight the returning home fans. 
 
Real had started the process of reforming their stadium just before the COVID-19 pandemic struck, modernising the ground and adding a retractable roof.

Real Madrid`s Karim Benzema netted a hat-trick as they capped their return to the refurbished Santiago Bernabeu stadium with a thrilling 5-2 comeback win over Celta Vigo in LaLiga on Sunday.

Real Madrid`s Karim Benzema netted a hat-trick as they capped their return to the refurbished Santiago Bernabeu stadium with a thrilling 5-2 comeback win over Celta Vigo in LaLiga on Sunday. The Frenchman was unplayable at times as Madrid were reunited with their fans for the first time since March 1, 2020. They played the whole of last season at reserve team Castilla`s Alfredo Di Stefano ground at their training complex. "I feel good, I`ve got the support of the coach, the president, the players and the crowd," Benzema said. "It`s a special night for us with the fans here and the atmosphere. It was a little strange to be playing in front of fans again, but they got right behind us. We need their support and they gave us everything today." The crowd were, however, stunned when Santi Mina latched onto a defensive mistake to put the visitors ahead after four minutes. Madrid recovered well, pinning Celta back, and the pressure eventually told after 24 minutes as Benzema equalised with his first goal following a Federico Valverde cutback. Franco Cervi put Celta back in front seven minutes later against the run of play from a lightning counter-attack and they went in ahead at the break. But Benzema, who had what he thought was an equaliser disallowed for offside just before halftime, headed Real level two minutes after the restart and from then on there was only going to be one winner. The forward teed up Vinicius Junior whose composed finish gave Carlo Ancelotti`s side the lead for the first time. New signing Eduardo Camavinga came off the bench to score on his debut, with the France midfielder tucking the ball home from close range, before Benzema completed his treble with a penalty three minutes from time to delight the returning home fans. Real had started the process of reforming their stadium just before the COVID-19 pandemic struck, modernising the ground and adding a retractable roof.

Benzema grabs treble as Real win seven-goal thriller on Bernabeu return

Karim Benzema picked up where he left off last season by scoring twice to fire Real Madrid to a 4-1 win away to Alaves in their opening game of the LaLiga campaign. 
 
Real had an uninspiring first half in Carlo Ancelotti`s first league game since taking charge of the club for a second time but Benzema settled their nerves by blasting the ball into the net in the 48th minute after being teed up by Eden Hazard. 
 
Defender Nacho Fernandez added to Real`s lead eight minutes later, sliding in to stab a Luka Modric through ball into the net from close range. 
 
Benzema scored a scrappy second goal in the 62nd but moments later Alaves pulled one back when striker Joselu slotted in a penalty after a foul by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. 
 
Substitute Vinicius Jr added a final goal for the visitors in stoppage time, netting with a diving header as he met a cross from debutant David Alaba. 
 
French striker Benzema was Real`s standout player last season with 23 league strikes, more than a third of the team`s goal haul, and his form earned him a recall to the France squad for the first time in six years. 
 
Ancelotti marvelled at Benzema`s performance and said he was a better player than when he coached him at Real between 2013 and 2015, when the Frenchman was more of a support striker for Cristiano Ronaldo. 
 
"To call Benzema just a striker does not do him justice. He is a very complete player, far more complete than five years ago," the Italian coach said. 
 
"He is the one who finishes our moves off but he also reads the game so well." 
 
The Italian also criticised his side for their sluggish start but was pleased with how they improved after halftime. 
 
"The first half we were a little slow when we had the ball and when we didn`t have it, we needed to press with more intensity, the game was slow and that`s not what we wanted," he added. 
 
"But we were much better in the second half, we showed more intensity and had more quality." 
 
Real got to play in front of fans for the first time in a league game since March 2020 although fewer than 4,000 spectators were allowed into Alaves` Mendizorrotza stadium due to the local government`s coronavirus restrictions. 
 
The few supporters present were nearly given an early treat when midfielder Pere Pons pounced on a loose ball inside the area but failed to keep his shot under the crossbar. 
 
Alaves also appealed for a penalty in the first half against Real`s Lucas Vazquez when he blocked a cross although the referee correctly ruled that the ball had struck his chest rather his arm. 
 
Madrid lined up with a front three of Benzema, Hazard and Gareth Bale, who was making his LaLiga return after spending last season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur. 
 
Hazard has hardly got going in his two seasons with Real but looked sharp while Bale had a couple of attempts on goal without causing goalkeeper Fernando Pacheco too much trouble.

Karim Benzema picked up where he left off last season by scoring twice to fire Real Madrid to a 4-1 win away to Alaves in their opening game of the LaLiga campaign.

Karim Benzema picked up where he left off last season by scoring twice to fire Real Madrid to a 4-1 win away to Alaves in their opening game of the LaLiga campaign. Real had an uninspiring first half in Carlo Ancelotti`s first league game since taking charge of the club for a second time but Benzema settled their nerves by blasting the ball into the net in the 48th minute after being teed up by Eden Hazard. Defender Nacho Fernandez added to Real`s lead eight minutes later, sliding in to stab a Luka Modric through ball into the net from close range. Benzema scored a scrappy second goal in the 62nd but moments later Alaves pulled one back when striker Joselu slotted in a penalty after a foul by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Substitute Vinicius Jr added a final goal for the visitors in stoppage time, netting with a diving header as he met a cross from debutant David Alaba. French striker Benzema was Real`s standout player last season with 23 league strikes, more than a third of the team`s goal haul, and his form earned him a recall to the France squad for the first time in six years. Ancelotti marvelled at Benzema`s performance and said he was a better player than when he coached him at Real between 2013 and 2015, when the Frenchman was more of a support striker for Cristiano Ronaldo. "To call Benzema just a striker does not do him justice. He is a very complete player, far more complete than five years ago," the Italian coach said. "He is the one who finishes our moves off but he also reads the game so well." The Italian also criticised his side for their sluggish start but was pleased with how they improved after halftime. "The first half we were a little slow when we had the ball and when we didn`t have it, we needed to press with more intensity, the game was slow and that`s not what we wanted," he added. "But we were much better in the second half, we showed more intensity and had more quality." Real got to play in front of fans for the first time in a league game since March 2020 although fewer than 4,000 spectators were allowed into Alaves` Mendizorrotza stadium due to the local government`s coronavirus restrictions. The few supporters present were nearly given an early treat when midfielder Pere Pons pounced on a loose ball inside the area but failed to keep his shot under the crossbar. Alaves also appealed for a penalty in the first half against Real`s Lucas Vazquez when he blocked a cross although the referee correctly ruled that the ball had struck his chest rather his arm. Madrid lined up with a front three of Benzema, Hazard and Gareth Bale, who was making his LaLiga return after spending last season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur. Hazard has hardly got going in his two seasons with Real but looked sharp while Bale had a couple of attempts on goal without causing goalkeeper Fernando Pacheco too much trouble.

Football: Karim Benzema double helps Real Madrid to winning start at Alaves

France coach Didier Deschamps was happy with his team's commitment in Tuesday's 1-0 win over Germany at Euro 2020 but said the world champions must look to retain possession better through the rest of the tournament.

France handed a sluggish-looking Germany their first opening-game defeat in the Euros, courtesy of an own goal by Mats Hummels in the 20th minute.

Stats showed that France had just over 40 per cent&nbsp;possession and only four attempts on goal but Deschamps said they were more clinical than Joachim Loew's side.

"I wouldn't say that we did dominate them because we played against a good team in Germany who caused us problems," Deschamps said.

"They had a lot of ball possession, more than us. We were defending very well. It was a match played on a very high level, two titans facing each other.

"We could have done things better, especially in ball possession, and looking at the attitude to show this dominance, to suffer all together, when we showed this commitment on the pitch today against the very strong German side."

France midfielder Paul Pogba accused Antonio Rudiger of "nibbling" him on the shoulder during the game but said he was not looking for the Germany defender to face punishment.

The two players clashed towards the end of the first half, with Rudiger caught on camera putting his face close to Pogba's back before reaching his arms around the Frenchman's chest.

"I'm not crying for cards, yellow, red cards because of such actions," Pogba said. "He nibbled, I think, a little bit on me. But we have known each other for a long time.

"I told the referee and he takes decisions and he took a decision. It's over.

"It was a great match for us ... and I didn't want him to be suspended because of such a situation. It was towards the end of the match. We hugged each other and that's it."

France coach Didier Deschamps was happy with his team's commitment in Tuesday's 1-0 win over Germany at Euro 2020 but said the world champions must look to retain possession better through the rest of the tournament.

France coach Didier Deschamps was happy with his team's commitment in Tuesday's 1-0 win over Germany at Euro 2020 but said the world champions must look to retain possession better through the rest of the tournament. France handed a sluggish-looking Germany their first opening-game defeat in the Euros, courtesy of an own goal by Mats Hummels in the 20th minute. Stats showed that France had just over 40 per cent possession and only four attempts on goal but Deschamps said they were more clinical than Joachim Loew's side. "I wouldn't say that we did dominate them because we played against a good team in Germany who caused us problems," Deschamps said. "They had a lot of ball possession, more than us. We were defending very well. It was a match played on a very high level, two titans facing each other. "We could have done things better, especially in ball possession, and looking at the attitude to show this dominance, to suffer all together, when we showed this commitment on the pitch today against the very strong German side." France midfielder Paul Pogba accused Antonio Rudiger of "nibbling" him on the shoulder during the game but said he was not looking for the Germany defender to face punishment. The two players clashed towards the end of the first half, with Rudiger caught on camera putting his face close to Pogba's back before reaching his arms around the Frenchman's chest. "I'm not crying for cards, yellow, red cards because of such actions," Pogba said. "He nibbled, I think, a little bit on me. But we have known each other for a long time. "I told the referee and he takes decisions and he took a decision. It's over. "It was a great match for us ... and I didn't want him to be suspended because of such a situation. It was towards the end of the match. We hugged each other and that's it."

Euro 2020: Deschamps happy with France spirit but sees room for improvement

Forward Karim Benzema was substituted after suffering a knock on the knee in the first half of France's Euro 2020 warm-up game against Bulgaria on Tuesday.

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The Real Madrid striker came off four minutes before halftime having seemed to land awkwardly following a header.

Benzema, who last week made his comeback with France after not playing for the national team for more than five years, stayed on the bench after being tended to by the world champions' medical staff.

"It's a knock on the knee, which also affects the muscle. He felt he was getting stiff so he asked to be subbed," coach Didier Deschamps told TF1.

"The medical staff are taking care of him."

Forward Karim Benzema was substituted after suffering a knock on the knee in the first half of France's Euro 2020 warm-up game against Bulgaria on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Football: Virus cases spike in Russian Euro host city The Real Madrid striker came off four minutes before halftime having seemed to land awkwardly following a header.

Forward Karim Benzema was substituted after suffering a knock on the knee in the first half of France's Euro 2020 warm-up game against Bulgaria on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Football: Virus cases spike in Russian Euro host city The Real Madrid striker came off four minutes before halftime having seemed to land awkwardly following a header. Benzema, who last week made his comeback with France after not playing for the national team for more than five years, stayed on the bench after being tended to by the world champions' medical staff. "It's a knock on the knee, which also affects the muscle. He felt he was getting stiff so he asked to be subbed," coach Didier Deschamps told TF1. "The medical staff are taking care of him."

Football: Benzema suffers knee 'knock' injury against Bulgaria

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema said he's targeting a trophy with France after he was recalled to their provisional Euro 2020 squad following a controversial, six-year international exile.

The prolific star, sidelined by Les Bleus since 2015 over his alleged role in a blackmail plot, missed out on France's 2018 World Cup win and their run to the Euro 2016 final on home soil.

Benzema, 33, told L'Equipe he was "proud" of his call-up, which followed talks with France coach Didier Deschamps earlier this month.

"I want to win a trophy with the French team," he said, adding that he hoped to "bring a little bit extra" to the World Cup-winners.

Benzema, who has 27 goals in 81 international appearances, was last week named as this season's best French foreign-based player by the country's players' association.

He top-scored for Real Madrid with 29 goals this term, passing 20 league goals in all three seasons since Cristiano Ronaldo left for Juventus in 2018.

Benzema has repeatedly criticised Deschamps and the French Football Federation for being dropped, citing racism as a factor in his axing from the Euro 2016 squad.

But he said those differences were in the past after his conversation with the coach.

"We said many things. Things that we needed to say for a long time. It was a good explanation, with important words," Benzema said.

He added: "I'm not coming to the French team to overshadow anyone or to take anyone's place. ... I am here to bring what I know."

France kick off their Euro 2020 campaign against three-time winners Germany in Munich on June 15, and also face Hungary and holders Portugal in Group F.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema said he's targeting a trophy with France after he was recalled to their provisional Euro 2020 squad following a controversial, six-year international exile.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema said he's targeting a trophy with France after he was recalled to their provisional Euro 2020 squad following a controversial, six-year international exile. The prolific star, sidelined by Les Bleus since 2015 over his alleged role in a blackmail plot, missed out on France's 2018 World Cup win and their run to the Euro 2016 final on home soil. Benzema, 33, told L'Equipe he was "proud" of his call-up, which followed talks with France coach Didier Deschamps earlier this month. "I want to win a trophy with the French team," he said, adding that he hoped to "bring a little bit extra" to the World Cup-winners. Benzema, who has 27 goals in 81 international appearances, was last week named as this season's best French foreign-based player by the country's players' association. He top-scored for Real Madrid with 29 goals this term, passing 20 league goals in all three seasons since Cristiano Ronaldo left for Juventus in 2018. Benzema has repeatedly criticised Deschamps and the French Football Federation for being dropped, citing racism as a factor in his axing from the Euro 2016 squad. But he said those differences were in the past after his conversation with the coach. "We said many things. Things that we needed to say for a long time. It was a good explanation, with important words," Benzema said. He added: "I'm not coming to the French team to overshadow anyone or to take anyone's place. ... I am here to bring what I know." France kick off their Euro 2020 campaign against three-time winners Germany in Munich on June 15, and also face Hungary and holders Portugal in Group F.

Football: 'I want a trophy' - Benzema eyes silverware after long France exile

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