Real Madrid: An important player may have been injured at Valencia

Real Madrid surrendered three penalties at the Mestalla in an embarrassing loss to Valencia, and injury may have been added to insult.

There’s something about playing at the Mestalla that causes Real Madrid headaches. Coming into Matchday 9, Los Blancos were heavy favorites against the Bats, who are the weakest they’ve been in years after a rough summer financially.

The day started off well for Real with a rocket of a goal from Karim Benzema. But soon after, it all came apart for Los Merengues. They surrendered three penalties and gave up an own goal, falling behind 4-1.

And with the game at 4-1, one of their star players was substituted with an injury.

Benzema left the match for Mariano Diaz in the 76th minute with Real down by three goals, and COPE’s Arancha Rodriguez reported that, as many fans observed, Benzema did indeed suffer an injury in the match.

Real Madrid cannot afford an injury to Karim Benzema

Madridistas can only hope Benzema’s injury is minor and that he was taken out as a precaution, but since Benz is rarely subbed when Los Blancos need goals, it’s safe to say he was hurt during the match.

Benzema led Real Madrid in goals and assists last season and is arguably the team’st most important player alongside Sergio Ramos, because the attack needs him to be effective in any way.

The No. 9 scored against Borussia Monchengladbach and Inter Milan in the last two Champions League fixtures, had a brace against Huesca, and scored a great goal at Valencia for one of Real’s lone bright moments in the loss. He also had two assists in that time span.

Keep an eye out for all updates on Benzema. If he misses time after the international break, Real could be in trouble. They need him healthy, because every game is crucial for Los Merengues right now. He and Hazard are the keys to Real’s success this season.