Karim Benzema Suffers Injury Blow 4 Days Before Facing Neymar’s Al Hilal in Saudi El Clasico

• Karim Benzema picked up an injury on Monday evening
• In his absence, Al-Ittihad recorded a comfortable 3-0 win against Al-Wehda
• The Frenchman could miss his side's next league game against Neymar's Al-Hilal

Al-Ittihad have suffered a significant setback with the latest injury to Karim Benzema.

The French striker, who recently scored his first goal in the Saudi Pro League against Al-Riyadh, had to leave the field just three minutes before half-time during Al-Ittihad's match against Al-Wehda.

Benzema, serving as the Tigers' captain for the second consecutive game, found it challenging to break through the strong defence of Al Wehda, who were on a two-game winning run.

Unfortunately, his involvement in a goal attempt ended in misery when he appeared to sustain a muscle tear in the back of his thigh while trying to control a pass near the penalty area.

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Initially, it seemed like a minor incident, but the 35-year-old couldn't shake off the injury and had to be substituted in the 42nd minute, per ESPNFC. Jota, another summer signing, replaced him.

Al-Ittihad have been left to assess the seriousness of Benzema's injury as they prepare for the Saudi version of the El Clasico against Al-Hilal. This match could mark Neymar's debut for Al-Hilal this season, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the upcoming clash.

Ittihad win in Benzema's absence

Al-Ittihad's remarkable season continued unabated as they secured a commanding 3-0 win over Al-Wehda at the King Abdul Aziz Stadium on Monday night, despite Benzema's injury.

Goals in the second half from Romarinho, Jota, and Igor Coronado propelled Nuno Espirito Santo's team to their fourth consecutive victory in the Saudi Pro League.

This triumph not only cements their leadership in the league standings, but also extends their streak of four consecutive clean sheets, underscoring their excellence in both offensive and defensive aspects of the game.

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Benzema scores first Saudi goal

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Karim Benzema finally broke his goal-scoring drought in the Saudi Pro League, scoring his first goal for Al-Ittihad against Al-Riyadh on Thursday night.

Benzema, whose future at the Saudi club has been the subject of intense speculation, marked his debut goal in the top flight after three appearances.