Real Madrid vs. Chelsea: 5 players who could decide the second leg of the Champions League quarterfinal

Real Madrid CF Karim Benzema

The Man, The Myth, The Legend – Karim Mostafa Benzema. It had to be him, it’s always been him. After a classic three-goal thriller against PSG, Benzema emerged once again, putting in another exemplary Champions League performance against Chelsea, hitting three great goals for a comfortable away victory.

Where would Real Madrid be now if he hadn’t been there? I don’t even want to think about the answer. Karim Benzema, a player who has always kept in the shadows, away from the spotlight, to push his teammates, give them all the glory and renown while being their quiet fuel power, has finally climbed above and is earning the praise and acclaim he has deserved for years.

Ever since joining Real in 2009, Benzema has been exceptional in scoring, assisting and giving his all for the club. He will undoubtedly go down as one of the club’s greatest legends.

His recent form against Chelsea was essential to the victory, and the game would have been lost if it hadn’t been for him. Benzema performed with vim and awareness from the start, as seen by his two powerful headers to send Mendy packing. The third goal was yet another reason why goalkeepers can’t bring themselves to blink when Benzema is nearby. He was simply incredible.

There is no question that he will contribute in the second half since he always does in some fashion. It’s all simple for him, whether it’s scoring goals, assisting others, or generating chances. His position, though, is likely to be less reliant, since the onus is now on the defence to prevent a comeback. At the same time, it is true that Eder Militao will not be available for the game, and Alaba will be creating a pair with, most likely, Nacho, which will be a bit dangerous for the goal.

If Chelsea exposes any loose ends in the combination, it will be Benzema’s responsibility to take up the role and level out the effect.