Real Madrid: 3 players who must step up vs. Getafe with Eden Hazard out

CF Karim Benzema

Karim Benzema and Eden Hazard have been connecting well since La Liga’s return, and Benzema has been even more impressive than the 100 million euro signing from Chelsea. This past Sunday, Benzema had one of the highlights of the season, even CNN covered it, with a nutmeg backheel assist that drew praise from Guti. His moment of genius gave Real a 1-0 win at the RCDE Stadium over Espanyol and proved the difference.

While Benzema has been scoring again since the return with three goals in the last five games, his creative output has been just as impressive. The most well-rounded striker of his generation – and it’s not even close – Benzema provided four key passes in the 3-0 win over Valencia and has had two key passes in back-to-back outings.

A must-start, Benzema also links up well with Isco and Vinicius Junior, and he’ll need to be the main threat all-around against Getafe. Although Getafe have a tough midfield and wide defenders, their center backs aren’t really talented, and they could get into some trouble while marking Benzema in the box or in tight spaces.

Although Benzema hasn’t completed a dribble, per WhoScored.com, he had a combined eight dribbles completed against Valencia and Eibar alone in the first two games after the restart. If he steps up, Getafe will still be in major trouble.