KARIM Benzema is hitting his stride just when Real Madrid needs it the most. The Ballon d’Or winner has been hampered by a series of minor injuries this season, including one that kept him from playing for France during its run to the World Cup final in Qatar.
But the 35-year-old striker is once again playing like one of the best players in Europe as Madrid eyes two major titles.
Benzema scored a second-half hat trick to lead Madrid over Barcelona 4-0 on Wednesday, putting his team into the Copa del Rey final for the first time since 2014.
Madrid is also set to face Chelsea next week in the Champions League quarterfinals as it tries to defend its title and win what would be a record-extending 15th European Cup.
Benzema, who was named soccer’s best male player for his exceptional 2021-22 campaign, has only played 31 of Madrid’s 45 games in all competitions this season
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