Karim Benzema, Real Madrid’s attacking star, spoke about leading his team to a historic victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, last Wednesday.
Benzema scored 3 goals to lead Real Madrid To turn his back in front of Paris Saint-Germain In the second leg of the 16th round Champions LeagueHe advanced to the quarter-finals with a 3-2 advantage on aggregate.
With this trio, Benzema achieved several historical records, most notably his advancing to third place in the list of historical scorers for Real Madrid, after he reached his 309th goal in the “Royal” shirt, overtaking the late Alfredo Di Stefano (308), and 13 goals behind Raul Gonzalez (second).
Benzema said in an interview with Real Madrid’s official website about the historic “Remontada” against Paris: “I am proud and happy, but the achievement was achieved thanks to the whole team, it is the product of the efforts of everyone; the players, the technical staff and the fans. It was a magical night in all respects.”
He added: “I did not watch the match, but I saw the chances and the goals. I think it was an unforgettable night thanks to the qualification decision, the atmosphere, the goals and the return. After the first leg, I was focused and ready for the return, so I started the match with real hunger and we spent a wonderful week of training and everyone was eager to perform well that night.” “.
And whether that match was the best in his career, Benzema said: “I don’t know, because I remember the Champions League final against Liverpool (in 2018), but if this was the best match, it’s because of the goals, as I scored a hat-trick in a very important meeting after we were late. 0-2, we put in a great performance but that goes for every player in our team.”
And he added, “It could be my best season so far, because every year I want to try to improve compared to the previous one.”
On receiving coach Carlo Ancelotti’s praise, Benzema said: “I am very happy and proud. He gives me real confidence and motivates me to help my colleagues and the team.”
He continued: “There are always players within the team who can make the difference, but you can’t do it alone, we need to help players who play great passes and move well.”
And about skipping Di Stefano’s number, Benzema said: “It is a dream come true. I remember on my first day here he was (Alfredo) with the club president and he came and hugged me and advised me to enjoy my presence in this wonderful place, he is a legend, his number equation makes me feel incredibly proud and happy and pushes me to continue.” .
It is worth noting that Benzema, 34, participated in 33 games with Real Madrid this season in various competitions, during which he scored 30 goals, as well as assisting 12 goals.