Alvaro Morata vs. Karim Benzema: comparing Real Madrid’s strikers

The eye test

What comes next is more of a personal perspective than facts supported by evidence. As the stats have shown, Benzema isn’t as bad a striker as his critics make him out to be.

So what is it exactly that would make a Madridista feel frustrated whenever Benzema gets the ball in the final third?

For anyone who has watched Benz since his arrival to Real Madrid, we all know that the Frenchman wastes some of the easiest chances around. The above video is a prime example of that. Certainly, when you don’t show up on the biggest stages like Cristiano, and have a not – so – amazing – goal per 90 minutes percentage, coupled with missing very easy chances, you will piss off lots of the fans. Especially Madrid’s fans.

Moreover, I think something is due to workrate and body language:

A quick look at some highlights of both players reveal a difference in how each of Real Madrid’s two strikers approach the game. The Frenchman approaches through calm, intelligent (and somewhat lazy) movement. The Spaniard on the other hand, would rather improvise. Morata is more determined to keep the ball. His shots are more powerful. His runs are more furious. Even his mindset when dispossessing the opponent is more aggressive. Madrid’s #21 seems like a much more enjoyable player for the Bernabeau fans to watch. On top of that, he also had the strong stats last season to support the argument that he might be the better striker.