Luca Madrich, Karim Benzema, Tony Cruz, Vinicius Jr., Rodrigo, Asensio … Real Madrid’s attack and midfield are quite rich. Nacho, Farlan Mendi, their protection is also quite solid with their friends. Before the match against Real in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final today, however, Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundoyan said one of them separately. The biggest fear of Man City in this match is Benzema.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Man City have reached the semi-finals, beating Atletico Madrid, another Madrid club, in the quarter-finals. Pep Guardiola’s side won 1–0 at home in the first leg of the quarter-finals. Gundoan-de Bruynera, however, advanced to the semifinals with a goalless draw in the second leg at Atletico. Gundoyan thinks the fight against Real will be more open.
Real Madrid star Karim Benzema
Real Madrid star Karim BenzemaPhoto: AFP
Gundoyan thinks that at least four Real players will suffer a lot for Man City. “Real’s side are tough for any opponent – Karim Benzema, Luka Modric, Tony Cruz – they are all in very good rhythm,” Man City’s German midfielder told Sport One before the first leg at home. Vinicius Jr. is playing great this season. More aggressive football than Atletico will be seen in this match.
Gundoyan then spoke specifically about Benzema. Benzema has been instrumental in helping Real reach the semi-finals in both semi-final against Chelsea. In the first leg, Chelsea scored a hat-trick at Stamford Bridge to give Real a 3–1 victory. In the second leg, Real reached the semi-finals after losing 3-2 due to one of his valuable goals. Benzema is the second highest scorer of the tournament with 12 goals. Robert Lewandowski overtook him with one more goal. His side lost to Bayern Munich Villarreal and were knocked out of the quarter-finals.
Gundoyan’s fears in the area are about Benzema
Gundoyan’s fears in the area are about BenzemaPhoto: Reuters
“Right now, along with Robert Lewandowski, Karim Benzema is the best striker in the world,” Gundoyan said of Benzema. He has shots on both legs. Quite strong in the air. I think he has been underestimated in the past. Now he is proving the critics wrong. ‘
Gundoyan did not stop there to praise Benzema. He goes on to say, ‘Cristiano Ronaldo has been in the shadows for a long time. Especially in the media. Now he is getting what he deserves. ‘
