London (AP) – The first header hit was technically demanding, the second no less difficult and the third goal by foot Karim Benzema was just wide awake.
As in the round of 16 second leg against Paris St. Germain, the French attacker scored a hat-trick for Real Madrid in the 3-1 win against Chelsea. “Those three goals are really important. I’m happiest about the third because I missed a chance in the first half and I was thinking about it,” Benzema said after his gala at Stamford Bridge. “We went into the game wanting to win and if Madrid take that approach it’s very positive for us.”
His goals in the 21st, 24th and 46th minutes – after a blatant error by Chelsea goalkeeper Édouard Mendy – were the Champions League goals numbers nine, ten and eleven for the France international this season. Only Bayern striker Robert Lewandowski has more, the Pole is at twelve. Benzema not only shone as an executor on Wednesday evening, but also created a lot of space for his teammates around ex-national player Toni Kroos with clever passes and runs. “What he’s doing is incredible,” praised ex-Bayern professional David Alaba. “He’s having the season of his life, very focused and hungry to score.”
“K9 is Spiderman. K9 is Wolverine. K9 is the doorman in front of your building. K9 is your best friend. K9 is your grandmother. K9 is the President of the USA. K9 is your parachute minder. K9 is your guardian angel. K9 is God !” Spain goalkeeping legend Iker Casillas tweeted about Benzema’s brilliant display.
His teammate David Alaba also praised Benzema. “What he’s doing is unbelievable. He’s having the season of his life, is very focused and hungry to score,” said the ex-Bayern professional.