Real Madrid News
Dani Alves reacts to Karim Benzema masterclass vs PSG: “What a player”
Real Madrid delivered a sucker punch to Paris Saint-Germain’s hopes of securing the UEFA Champions League title this season, with Karim Benzema delivering a performance for the ages.
Despite leading by an aggregate of two goals at half-time, Les Parisiens crumbled to the Real Madrid onslaught in the second half, as Benzema netted a quickfire hat-trick to overturn a two-goal deficit into a 3-2 lead on aggregate.
The 3-1 victory at Santiago Bernabeu was enough for Los Blancos to book tickets for the quarter-final stage of the competition.
Reacting to the win, FC Barcelona veteran Dani Alves praised Benzema’s performance on his Instagram account, hailing the Frenchman for his brilliance on the night.
Alves put out a story, with the caption: “I don’t care if he is from Madrid, but what a player, what a player Benzema is. I love this game.”
Alves was simply one of many to congratulate Benzema on the night, for his marvellous attacking display against PSG. It serves as a testament to the success the Frenchman has garnered at Real Madrid, especially after the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Since the start of the 2018/19 campaign, the 34-year-old has racked up 117 goals in all competitions. It led to him being one of the favourites in last year’s Ballon d’Or, with the striker finishing only behind Lionel Messi, Robert Lewandowski and Jorginho.
As we head towards the final phase of the campaign, Benzema’s contributions in front of the goal could be even more significant, especially in Real Madrid’s bid to secure the league title and reclaim the UEFA Champions League crown.
There is no secret that Real Madrid might consider a move for a new striker in the coming summer. With Karim Benzema slowly nearing the end of his career, the club are looking for a viable alternative ahead of the new season.
Carlo Ancelotti has been left impressed by the performances of Rodrygo in the centre forward position. But the club could still use the services of a more recognised option in the number nine position.
The Spanish giants are reportedly assessing La Liga for a potential low-cost option. But they are also open to looking through in other leagues, in their bid to add more depth in the attacking department.
To that end, Fabrizio Romano claims Real Madrid are eyeing a swoop for Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool star has become the latest player to be shortlisted by Los Blancos, with his current contract at Liverpool expiring at the end of the season.
Formerly of TSG Hoffenheim, Firmino has a stellar track record of performing in Europe. He has scored 110 goals in 361 competitive matches during his time at Liverpool, winning the Premier League and the Champions League title.
A centre forward by trade, Roberto is known for his tactical flexibility and the ability to shift into wider areas to build up the player.
It makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid, who would prefer a versatile striker in their ranks that can not only provide cover for Benzema but also the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid, though, are yet to hold any discussions with Roberto Firmino just yet. He has just been added to the list of targets and one would expect the Spanish giants to make a move once the season is over and the player becomes a free agent.
