Karim Benzema Named “Best Player” in Saudi Arabia Ahead of Ronaldo After Insane Goal for Al Ittihad

• Karim Benzema began his Saudi sojourn on a flier
• The former Real Madrid captain grabbed a goal and an assist on his Al-Ittihad debut
• His exploits ensured Ittihad moved to the top of Group A in the Arab Club Champions Cup

Karim Benzema marked his debut for Al-Ittihad in the Arab Club Champions Cup on Thursday, July 27, with an awe-inspiring goal against Esperance.

Benzema, who joined the Saudi Pro League champions from Real Madrid, wasted no time in making an impact, showing his prowess alongside Moroccan striker Hamdallah as they led the charge for Nuno Espirito Santo's team.

Benzema's Al Ittihad debut and impact

During the match, the Tunisian side Esperance took the lead with a goal from Oussema Bouguerra in the 26th minute, causing a rocky start for Benzema's debut.

However, just nine minutes later, Hamdallah brilliantly finished off an assist from the former Real Madrid ace, bringing the score level at halftime.

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The second half saw the Frenchman's true brilliance shine as he beautifully curled the ball into the net, announcing his presence emphatically, Football Espana reports.

His goal completed a remarkable comeback for Al-Ittihad, showcasing Benzema's exceptional talent on the field.

With his goal and assist, the 35-year-old played a crucial role in securing victory for his new team, propelling them to the top of Group A in the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup.

His debut performance will undoubtedly be remembered as a memorable and triumphant moment for both Benzema and Al-Ittihad.

How fans reacted?

@lhordkrane argued:

"Benzema is the Best player in Saudi already. CR7 shaking right now."

@hkilla_100 agreed with @lhordkrane's viewpoints:

"He’s already better than Ronaldo in the Saudi Arabia League."

While praising Benzema, another fan, @MuhammadBukarUm, aimed a subtle dig at Lionel Messi:

"Unlike Messi’s staged free-kick goal, this is a genuine goal. Al-Ittihad is seeing the real value for money."

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@AhmedMo29170613 believes Benzema's goal validates his Ballin d'Or award:

"That is why he managed to be one of the Ballan d’Or recipients."

@afcadams_ inferred that Benzema's performance was inspired by the colour of his jersey:

"Why did they allow Benzema to wear a white kit? They're unlocking something they don't know."

Benzema: "I'm here to win"

Sports Brief reported that Karim Benzema has revealed his real intentions after inking a three-year deal with Al-Ittihad.

The 35-year-old, who is Real Madrid's second-highest goal-scorer of all-time, cited Ronaldo as one of his motivations, with his quest to win more laurels for his stacked trophy cabinet being another reason to join the Tigers.