Benzema Misses Crucial Penalty in Saudi El Clasico Against Al Hilal, Video

• Karim Benzema failed to add to his tally in the Saudi El Clasico
• The Frenchman had been on fire since making his debut for Al-Ittihad
• His missed penalty partially cost Ittihad a spot in the semifinals of the Arab Cup

Karim Benzema had a moment to forget in his first taste of Saudi Arabia's version of the El Clasico between Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal as he missed a crucial penalty on August 5th.

Despite his vast successes in the original El Clasico, Saturday's encounter marked Benzema's first fault for Al-Ittihad, leading to their exit from the Arab Club Champions Cup at the quarterfinal stage.

The Frenchman's missed penalty in the 78th minute added to the unexpected setback, as Al-Hilal secured a 3-1 victory over their sworn rivals, securing a spot in the semifinals, French Football Weekly reports.

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Benzema's Al-Ittihad lose Clasico

Hilal took the lead through summer signing Milinkovic-Savic, with the controversy surrounding the goal due to an apparent push by the Serbian midfielder on his marker.

While Salem Al Dawsari doubled Hilal's lead just before half-time, Ittihad fought back at the start of the second half, reducing the deficit through Romarinho's goal.

However, former Barcelona winger Malcom restored Hilal's two-goal cushion. Despite his best efforts, the 35-year-old couldn't add to his three-goal tally for his new team, ending the match on a disappointing note.

Nevertheless, the reigning Ballon d'Or holder will now prepare for the Saudi Pro League campaign, where his side is set to face Al-Raed on August 14.

Ancelotti: Madrid moves past Benzema

After 14 trophy laded years with Real Madrid, French striker Karim Benzema decided to depart the club to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad. Since he left, there have been rumours about who will replace the legendary striker, Sports Brief reported.

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Speaking in Dallas, USA, Madrid coach Ancelotti said the club are fine in their strikers' department after the signings of Joseulu and Brahim Diaz, who returns after three years at AC Milan.

Ancelotti added that the club has moved on from Benzema, Casemiro, and Ronaldo.