Karim Benzema: The Ballon d’Or and the Culmination of a Legendary Journey

On a crisp October evening in Paris, Karim Benzema ascended to football’s pantheon, claiming the 2022 Ballon d’Or in what felt less like a coronation and more like the culmination of an epic odyssey. For those attuned to the rhythm of the beautiful game, this moment was anything but a shock. Benzema’s triumph was the logical conclusion to a 2021-22 season that redefined greatness and cemented his legacy as one of the finest centre-forwards of his generation. 

A Season of Dominance 

Benzema’s numbers for the season are staggering: 44 goals and 15 assists in 46 games. He was the top scorer in both La Liga and the Champions League, leading Real Madrid to a historic double while adding the Spanish Super Cup to his collection. On the international stage, he played a pivotal role in France’s UEFA Nations League triumph, scoring in the final and sparking a comeback against Belgium in the semi-final. 

But these raw statistics, as impressive as they are, fail to capture the essence of Benzema’s artistry. His performances were not merely about goals; they were about moments—moments that transcended the numbers, moments that etched themselves into footballing lore. 

The European Campaign: A Theater of the Absurd 

The Champions League campaign was a narrative so implausible it bordered on the mythical. Against Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid seemed dead and buried, trailing 2-0 on aggregate. Then came Benzema’s hat-trick, a masterclass in composure and opportunism that turned the tie on its head. 

At Stamford Bridge, he produced another hat-trick, silencing Chelsea’s faithful. Back at the Bernabéu, he scored again to seal the deal. Against Manchester City, he was the beating heart of Madrid’s improbable comeback. A Panenka penalty at the Etihad showcased his audacity under pressure, and another decisive spot-kick at the Bernabéu sent Madrid to the final. 

In Paris, Benzema lifted his fifth Champions League trophy, but this one was different. This was his triumph, his masterpiece. For the first time, the European Cup felt like it belonged to him as much as it did to Real Madrid. 

The Evolution of a Maestro 

Benzema’s journey to the Ballon d’Or is a story of resilience, reinvention, and recognition. When he joined Real Madrid in 2009, club president Florentino Pérez visited his modest home on Rue Youri Gagarin in Bron, near Lyon, and promised him greatness. It took 14 years, but Pérez’s prophecy has been fulfilled. 

The road was anything but smooth. For much of his career, Benzema toiled in the shadow of Cristiano Ronaldo, a colossus whose goal-scoring exploits defined an era. As Ronaldo’s foil, Benzema was often underappreciated, his selflessness mistaken for inadequacy. 

But in Ronaldo’s absence, Benzema stepped into the spotlight and redefined himself. No longer just a facilitator, he became the focal point of Madrid’s attack, a complete forward who combined intelligence, creativity, and clinical finishing. As Zidane once said, “He is not just a No. 9 or a 10; he is a total footballer.” 

The Critics Silenced 

For years, Benzema was misunderstood, his subtle brilliance lost on those who measure football by goals alone. The trolls mocked him; the critics doubted him. But as the Bernabéu faithful chanted “Karim, Balón de Oro,” it was clear the narrative had shifted. 

His numbers in recent seasons speak volumes. Six times he has scored more than 20 league goals in a season; four of those have come after turning 30. Each year, he has grown better, more complete, more indispensable. 

The Human Story 

Benzema’s Ballon d’Or victory is also a deeply human story. On stage in Paris, he invited his mother, Malika, to join him. A boy from the council estates of Bron, Benzema’s journey is a testament to the power of belief, hard work, and familial support. His 5-year-old son Ibrahim and 8-year-old daughter Melia watched as their father achieved the pinnacle of his career, a legacy that will inspire generations to come. 

The Legacy 

Benzema’s triumph is a victory for a different kind of footballer—one who sees the game in its entirety, who values the collective as much as the individual, who plays with flair, awareness, and intelligence. At 34, he is the oldest Ballon d’Or winner since Stanley Matthews in 1956, and the first Frenchman to claim the prize since Zidane in 1998. 

He has overtaken Alfredo Di Stéfano and Raúl on Real Madrid’s all-time scoring list, trailing only Ronaldo. But his legacy goes beyond numbers. Benzema has become the embodiment of Real Madrid’s ethos: resilience, elegance, and an unyielding belief in the impossible. 

A Fitting Conclusion 

When Pérez told a young Benzema he could become the best in the world, it seemed an audacious claim. But as the Ballon d’Or rests in his hands, it is clear Pérez was right. Benzema’s journey is a reminder that greatness is not always immediate; sometimes, it is a slow burn, a story that takes years to unfold. 

For Karim Benzema, the Ballon d’Or is not just a trophy—it is a testament to a career of quiet brilliance, a symbol of recognition long overdue, and the crowning achievement of a player who has redefined what it means to be a footballing great. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Karim Benzema: A Generational Talent Redefining Modern Football

Karim Benzema’s brilliance was on full display as he scored and provided two assists in Real Madrid’s 3-1 La Liga victory over Eibar. This performance marked the 30th time the Frenchman has both scored and assisted in the same La Liga match—a feat surpassed only by Cristiano Ronaldo (44) in Real Madrid’s 21st-century history. Benzema’s contributions in this game were emblematic of his enduring class and versatility, a testament to his evolution as one of football’s most complete forwards.

A Masterclass in Leadership and Vision

Benzema’s impact against Eibar was immediate and decisive. He scored early, assisted Luka Modric with precision, and had another goal ruled out for offside. His vision and awareness shone brightest in stoppage time when he set up Lucas Vazquez to seal the victory. These moments underscore Benzema’s ability to dictate play, combining clinical finishing with a selfless creative spark that elevates his teammates.

This win extended Real Madrid’s streak to five consecutive victories across all competitions, a run that has eased pressure on manager Zinedine Zidane. The resurgence has been driven by Zidane’s trust in experienced stalwarts like Benzema, whose consistency has kept Madrid competitive in a challenging transitional phase. Without Cristiano Ronaldo and with Gareth Bale’s struggles, Benzema has become the linchpin of Madrid’s attack, silencing critics who once doubted his capabilities.

The “Nine and a Half” Phenomenon

Benzema’s style transcends traditional roles. While often deployed as a central striker, his game is marked by fluidity. He drops deep to link play, drifts wide to exploit space, and demonstrates remarkable composure in front of goal. His strength, technical ability, and vision have earned him the moniker of a “nine and a half,” blending the traits of a classic number 9 with the creativity of a number 10.

Critics have long lauded Benzema for his work rate, tactical intelligence, and positional awareness. His ability to draw defenders and create space for teammates was pivotal during Ronaldo’s tenure at Madrid, where Benzema often acted as a “false 9.” This selflessness allowed Ronaldo to thrive, but it also obscured Benzema’s individual brilliance.

From Lyon to Madrid: A Journey of Resilience

Born in Lyon to Algerian parents, Benzema’s journey to stardom began at Bron Terraillon SC. His early promise caught the attention of Lyon’s academy, where he rapidly ascended the ranks. By the age of 16, he had scored 38 goals in the Championnat National des 16 ans, showcasing a precocious talent that would soon shine on bigger stages.

Benzema’s professional debut came in 2005, and his rise was meteoric. At Lyon, he donned the number 10 jersey and led the line with aplomb, scoring 31 goals in the 2007-08 season. His performances earned him the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award and a move to Real Madrid in 2009 for €35 million. Despite initial struggles, including adapting to a new culture and language, Benzema’s resilience and determination saw him emerge as a cornerstone of Madrid’s success.

Triumphs and Tribulations at Real Madrid

Benzema’s early years in Madrid were marked by challenges. Competing with Gonzalo Higuain for a starting role and facing criticism for inconsistency, he endured scrutiny from fans and media alike. However, under the mentorship of Zidane, Benzema flourished. By the 2011-12 season, he had transformed his game, shedding weight and enhancing his physicality. His improved fitness and work ethic laid the foundation for a career defined by longevity and excellence.

The Frenchman’s partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale formed the iconic “BBC” trio, which powered Madrid to numerous titles, including four Champions League trophies. Yet, Benzema’s contributions often went unnoticed, overshadowed by Ronaldo’s goal-scoring exploits. Following Ronaldo’s departure in 2018, Benzema stepped out of the shadows, assuming the mantle of Madrid’s attacking leader.

The Underrated Maestro

Benzema’s ability to adapt and thrive in different roles sets him apart. As Madrid navigated a period of transition, his leadership and consistency became invaluable. Critics who once questioned his suitability for the spotlight now acknowledge his greatness. Zidane’s unwavering faith in Benzema has been vindicated, with the striker delivering match-winning performances time and again.

Despite his domestic and European success, Benzema’s international career has been a source of frustration. Excluded from the French national team for several years, he missed the opportunity to showcase his talents on the World Cup stage. However, his resilience and focus have ensured that his legacy remains intact.

A Legacy Cemented

As Benzema continues to defy age and expectations, his status as one of Real Madrid’s all-time greats is unquestionable. His blend of technical skill, tactical intelligence, and unselfish play has redefined the role of a modern striker. With over 350 goals for Madrid, he stands as a testament to perseverance and adaptability.

In an era dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema’s brilliance may have been overlooked, but his contributions to football are undeniable. He embodies the essence of a team player, a leader who thrives on elevating those around him. As Zidane aptly put it, “Benzema is a match-winner because what he’s doing is on a different level.”

The time has come to celebrate Karim Benzema for what he truly is: a generational talent and one of the most complete forwards in football history.  

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Benzema Revolution: A Post-Ronaldo Renaissance for Real Madrid

When Cristiano Ronaldo departed Real Madrid in the summer of 2018, the footballing world braced for a cataclysmic shift at the Santiago Bernabéu. The Portuguese talisman had been the heart and soul of Los Blancos, scoring an astonishing 40+ goals per season and redefining what it meant to be a modern-day footballing icon. His exit left a void so gaping that even the most optimistic fans feared Real Madrid would be plunged into mediocrity. 

Yet, in the shadow of that seismic departure, Karim Benzema quietly emerged as the unlikeliest of heroes. Mocked by critics, trolled by fans, and dismissed as a mere supporting act during Ronaldo's reign, Benzema has since redefined himself as the centrepiece of Real Madrid’s post-Ronaldo era. 

A Moment of Magic: Real Madrid’s Carnival of Football 

In a match that epitomized the artistry of Zinedine Zidane’s Real Madrid, Benzema delivered a moment of pure genius that will be etched in memory. Just before halftime, Marcelo swept a pinpoint crossfield ball to Sergio Ramos, who had ventured into a centre-forward position. Ramos, ever the opportunist, flicked the ball to Benzema. What followed was an act of audacious brilliance—a back-heeled nutmeg to Casemiro, who surged into the box and rifled the ball home. 

The goal wasn’t merely a piece of individual skill; it was the culmination of a team move that showcased Real Madrid at their fluid best. It encapsulated Zidane’s philosophy—grace under pressure, creativity in tight spaces, and unwavering trust in the collective. 

The Post-Ronaldo Transition: Chaos and Resilience 

Real Madrid’s 2018-19 season was a tumultuous affair. Julen Lopetegui’s tenure was short-lived, undone by poor results and a lack of cohesion. Santiago Solari’s reign ended in heartbreak, with Ajax delivering a humiliating defeat at the Bernabéu. Florentino Pérez turned to Zidane, hoping the Frenchman could restore order to the chaos. 

Amid the turmoil, Benzema stood as a beacon of consistency. While the team struggled to find its identity, the French striker shouldered the burden of leadership, scoring crucial goals and delivering decisive performances. His tally of 52 goals in 93 matches since Ronaldo’s departure speaks volumes about his transformation from a perceived liability to an indispensable asset. 

The Evolution of Benzema: From Supporting Act to Leading Man 

For years, Benzema was overshadowed by Ronaldo’s brilliance. His role was often reduced to that of a facilitator, a selfless striker whose primary job was to create space and opportunities for his more illustrious teammate. Critics labelled him as inconsistent, wasteful, and unworthy of the Real Madrid shirt. 

But Ronaldo’s departure forced Benzema into the spotlight, and he embraced the challenge with remarkable poise. No longer the second fiddle, he evolved into a complete forward—a scorer, creator, and leader. 

Benzema’s contributions extend far beyond his goal tally. His ability to drop deep and link up play has been pivotal to Real Madrid’s attacking fluidity. His vision and technical prowess have produced over 20 assists in the post-Ronaldo era. And his defensive work rate, often overlooked, underscores his commitment to the team’s cause. 

The Zidane Effect: A Perfect Synergy 

Under Zidane, Benzema has flourished. The manager’s faith in the French striker has been unwavering, and Benzema has repaid that trust with performances that defy expectations. Zidane’s tactical setup, which emphasizes fluidity and positional interchange, has allowed Benzema to thrive as both a playmaker and a finisher. 

Zidane himself acknowledged Benzema’s brilliance after the match against Espanyol, saying, “Nothing Karim does surprises me. He is a player who can invent things on the pitch. The control, the back-heel, and the pass were all amazing. It might be one of the best pieces of play for the whole season.” 

A Season of Redemption 

Since the resumption of La Liga following the COVID-19 break, Benzema has been instrumental in Real Madrid’s pursuit of the title. His interplay with Eden Hazard led to the breakthrough goal against Eibar. His brace against Valencia showcased his clinical finishing. And his game-winning strike against Real Sociedad demonstrated his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. 

The assist to Casemiro, however, was the pièce de résistance—a moment that epitomized Benzema’s artistry and selflessness. 

The Legacy of Benzema 

Benzema’s journey from the shadows of Ronaldo to the forefront of Real Madrid’s success is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering belief in his abilities. He has silenced his detractors with performances that combine skill, intelligence, and heart. 

In an era where football is often reduced to numbers and statistics, Benzema reminds us of the beauty of the game—the subtle touches, the intricate passes, and the moments of magic that leave us in awe. 

As Real Madrid march toward another potential La Liga title, they do so with Benzema leading the charge. He is not merely a replacement for Ronaldo; he is a player who has carved out his own legacy, one that will be remembered as the Benzema Revolution.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

El Calsico: Real Madrid Were The better Side at Camp Nou

 The last goalless El Clásico before last night’s encounter dates back to November 23, 2002, at the very same venue: Camp Nou. Despite the absence of goals, that clash remains etched in history as one of the most ill-tempered encounters in the storied rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The animosity of that night reached its peak when Luis Figo, who had controversially crossed the divide between the eternal rivals in 2000, faced the wrath of the Camp Nou faithful. Figo’s return was marked by vitriol, but his second visit became infamous. Every corner kick he took was accompanied by a hailstorm of objects—lighters, coins, a bottle of whiskey, and even a severed pig’s head. The atmosphere was incendiary, a reflection of the deep-seated enmity between the clubs and their supporters. Amid this chaos, the match ended in a stalemate, yet its legacy endures as a fiery chapter in El Clásico lore.

Fast forward 6,235 days, and the rivalry has transformed, passing through the hands of successive generations of footballing icons. For over a decade, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo embodied the essence of El Clásico, elevating it to a global spectacle. Their departure from the fixture—Ronaldo to Juventus in 2018 and Messi to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021—might have dimmed its star power, but the intensity remains unshaken.

Last night’s encounter, postponed from October 26 due to civil unrest in Catalonia, unfolded under extraordinary circumstances. Both teams shared a hotel before travelling together to Camp Nou, a rare scene dictated by heightened security concerns. Outside the stadium, thousands of Catalan independence protesters gathered their presence a stark reminder of the political tensions that have gripped the region. The game itself was briefly interrupted in the second half when yellow balls rained onto the pitch, symbolizing the protesters’ message. Meanwhile, clashes between police and demonstrators erupted outside, resulting in injuries and fires in the streets.

Inside the stadium, however, the game proceeded without major incidents. While Barcelona’s dominance at Camp Nou in recent years set expectations, it was Real Madrid who emerged as the more cohesive and determined unit. Zinedine Zidane’s tactical approach emphasized compactness and discipline, with a diamond-shaped midfield led by Isco, flanked by the experienced Toni Kroos, Fede Valverde, and Casemiro. This strategy paid dividends, as Real Madrid controlled the tempo and created more significant opportunities.

Gareth Bale came close to breaking the deadlock, his effort finding the net before being ruled offside. Isco’s link-up play with Karim Benzema and Bale repeatedly stretched Barcelona’s defensive lines, isolating Frenkie de Jong and exploiting gaps in the host’s midfield. Despite their superior organization and creativity, Real Madrid’s inability to finish chances remained their Achilles’ heel.

At the heart of Real’s success was Casemiro, who delivered a masterclass in defensive midfield play. His ability to read the game and neutralize threats was pivotal, particularly in containing Lionel Messi. Every time Messi found space, Casemiro was there to close it down, cutting off Barcelona’s primary creative outlet. His versatility allowed him to seamlessly transition between shielding the backline and supporting the attack, a dynamic presence that underscored his importance to Zidane’s system.

Casemiro’s efforts extended beyond Messi. Luis Suárez and Frenkie de Jong found themselves stifled by his relentless interventions. Even when faced with disciplinary consequences—a yellow card for a crucial tackle on Suárez that rules him out of the next match—Casemiro’s timing and composure were impeccable, preventing what could have been a game-changing moment for Barcelona.

While the match ended goalless, Real Madrid’s performance was far from lacking. Zidane’s tactical acumen, coupled with the team’s disciplined execution, showcased a side capable of dominating one of the most challenging venues in world football. For Barcelona, the result highlighted vulnerabilities in their structure and reliance on individual brilliance, a stark contrast to the cohesive unit fielded by their eternal rivals.

In the end, the latest chapter of El Clásico reaffirmed the enduring allure of this fixture. It is not merely a contest of goals but a battle of wills, tactics, and narratives that transcend the game itself. Each clash - is a reflection of its era—its players, its context, and its stakes. As the dust settles on another edition of this storied rivalry, the world’s attention shifts to the next meeting, where the stakes will undoubtedly be as high, and the drama just as compelling.

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar  

The Anatomy of a Classic: How Real Madrid shattered Barcelona’s streak at Camp Nou

Barcelona entered El Clásico as heavy favourites, riding a wave of brilliant form. Their trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Neymar—collectively dubbed 'MSN'—had become the scourge of defenders across Europe. With their dazzling interplay and clinical precision, it seemed inevitable that another victory was on the cards for the Catalans. Real Madrid, on the other hand, had struggled with inconsistency in big matches. Their own famed trio—Bale, Benzema, and Cristiano Ronaldo (BBC)—had failed to find the spark in moments that mattered. Yet, in football, greatness often lies in defying expectations. And that is precisely what unfolded at Camp Nou.  

Madrid's 2-1 triumph not only ended Barça’s remarkable 39-match unbeaten streak but also marked a defining moment for Zinedine Zidane, who avoided the turbulent debuts endured by his predecessors like José Mourinho and Rafa Benítez. This was no tactical fluke or fortunate escape; rather, it was a masterclass in discipline, cohesion, and belief—anchored by two players whose contributions transcended statistics: Casemiro and Marcelo.  

Casemiro: The Invisible Architect

In a game brimming with attacking talent, it was Casemiro’s understated brilliance that quietly reshaped Madrid’s fortunes. The Brazilian operated with the precision of a metronome, striking the perfect balance between defence, midfield, and attack. His positioning was immaculate, consistently closing down Barcelona’s passing lanes and preventing Messi from weaving his usual magic in central areas. Casemiro did not merely defend—he orchestrated.  

In a contest like El Clásico, shutting down Messi requires more than physical presence; it demands tactical intelligence. Casemiro disrupted Barça’s rhythm, stifling the spaces through which Messi thrives. His efforts allowed Madrid to absorb pressure without collapsing, giving the team breathing space to recalibrate and strike when opportunities arose. This type of performance is what distinguishes a good defensive midfielder from an elite one. It is the 'X-factor' that transforms containment into creation—a rare blend of destruction and construction in the heart of the pitch.  

Marcelo: The Maverick Unleashed 

While Casemiro anchored the spine, Marcelo danced along the margins. Freed from defensive burdens by Casemiro’s dominance, the Brazilian left-back roamed with audacity. At times, it felt as though Marcelo wasn’t just playing football—he was composing it, stitching Madrid’s play together with improvisational brilliance. His adventurous forays into the attacking third stretched Barcelona’s defence, creating pockets of space for the likes of Ronaldo and Benzema to exploit.  

Yes, Marcelo left gaps behind him, a temptation defenders face when they are given creative license. But on this night, the rewards far outweighed the risks. Marcelo’s relentless movement and fluid interplay contributed to the moments that tilted the game in Madrid’s favour. In matches of such magnitude, where small details decide outcomes, it is often these bursts of daring that create the decisive edge.  

The Zidane Effect: Trust and Tactics 

Zidane’s handling of his first El Clásico as head coach was a revelation. He showed neither the rigid conservatism of Mourinho nor the tactical indecisiveness of Benítez. Instead, Zidane placed trust in his players and let them express themselves within a disciplined framework. His decision to rely on Casemiro was pivotal—not only for the game itself but also for the message it sent. Zidane recognized that players like Casemiro, though not glamorous, are indispensable in shaping the identity of a successful team.  

Looking Ahead: Casemiro’s Growing Legacy 

Casemiro’s performance was a reminder of the value a defensive midfielder brings beyond numbers—his presence enabled Madrid to neutralize Barcelona’s attacking threat and simultaneously unleash their own creative forces. For Real Madrid, he has become an irreplaceable asset, a player who embodies both grit and tactical intelligence. And for Brazil, Casemiro holds the key to unlocking a more balanced midfield. If paired with a partner like Lucas Lima, the duo could inject much-needed stability and creativity into Brazil’s sometimes disjointed midfield—a vital ingredient for their aspirations on the international stage.  

When Spirit Triumphs Over Momentum

El Clásico is not just a game; it is an arena where reputations are forged and narratives are rewritten. Barcelona’s momentum, form, and firepower made them the favourites, but Real Madrid’s spirit, personified by Casemiro and Marcelo, ultimately triumphed. Their contributions were not merely supportive but transformative—defining moments in a game where individual brilliance found its purpose within a collective framework.  

In football, the finest victories are not always about who scores the most goals, but about who wins the battle in the spaces no one notices. On that night at Camp Nou, Real Madrid’s triumph was written not by the usual suspects, but by two Brazilians who embodied the perfect blend of discipline and freedom. And it is these stories—of unsung heroes and daring performances—that make El Clásico the ultimate theatre of football.  

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar