Real Madrid: 5 takeaways from 3-2 win over Real Betis

Don’t focus on Karim Benzema’s misses

Karim Benzema missed a couple of golden opportunities for Real Madrid in this game, and that frustrated fans since he also missed a sitter last week in the goalless draw.

But as a whole, Benzema had a very good game, even including the misses. Criticisms of Benzema’s performance would also involve his many offsides calls and some sloppy giveaways, including when dropping deep.

That said, Real Madrid would not have won this game without Benzema. He was one of the most important players on the pitch. Benzema put in so much work in the attack, especially in the first half, dropping deep and creating chances with his passing. The first goal was a huge credit to Benzema’s elite dribbling skills, as it’s hard to think of many No. 9’s in world football who could have created that chance for Fede Valverde.

Benzema had two dribbles completed and two fouls drawn, so the stats don’t really flatter the 32-year-old star forward. However, his effort, intensity, and skill were there to see, and he was the main man causing problems in the final third for Los Blancos. It seems like he’s still a little rusty in front of goal, but once that sorts out, watch closely. Benzema didn’t score today, but a bevy of goals could be forthcoming, based on the sheer volume of chances he was involved in.