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Published 13:35 IST, August 25th 2023

Karim Benzema gifts penalty to teammate after scoring his first goal for Al-Ittihad- WATCH

Karim Benzema scored his first goal in the Saudi Pro League for Al-Ittihad. The French star showed an act of class through a gesture, wearing the captain's armband.

Reported by: Aryan Suraj Chadha
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Karim Benzema for Al-Ittihad, (Image: AP) | Image: self
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Al-Ittihad are once again on fire this season in the Saudi Pro League. Karim Benzema’s team is once again victorious in the league and is unbeatable in their last 3 matches. Ittihad faced Al-Riyadh in their third match of the SPL. However, it turned out to be a comfortable win by four goals to nil.

3 things you need to know

  • Karim Benzema opened the scoring against Al-Riyadh in the 17th minute
  • Abderrazak Hamdallah scored a brace against Riyadh
  • Saleh-al Amri scored on the 90+3 minute to make it 4 

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Krim Benzema scores his first Saudi Pro League goal in Al-Ittihad vs Al-Riyadh

Despite lingering reports of animosity between him and his manager at Al Ittihad, Nuno Espirito Santo, former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema just scored his first goal in the Saudi Pro League.  After joining the Saudi Pro League club Al Ittihad earlier this summer, Benzema reportedly wanted to be named captain. Coach Nuno Espirito Santo, though, had a different take and warned the club's administration that Benzema might not fit in with his tactical philosophy.

Speculation regarding the alleged rift between the former Real Madrid icon and the coach has led to stories stating that he is unhappy with the situation. Despite these rumours, Benzema was spotted guiding Al Ittihad as captain in their dominant 4-0 win over Al Riyadh. This shows his sustained dedication to the squad.

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Also Read: Karim Benzema to leave Al-Ittihad just after 2 months? Club boss makes shocking claim

Karim Benzema shows act of class against Al-Riyadh 

Benzema might have scored a brace by converting a penalty, but instead, he handed the ball to his teammate Abderrazak Hamdallah, who went on to score in the 25th minute. This class act from Benzema shows his unselfish behaviour on the pitch. 

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The gesture from Benzema recalled a huge memory from the last decade when Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, and Benzema were the attacking trio of Real Madrid, and the French star was often seen creating more chances for his teammates to get on the scoresheet despite being a striker. 

Al Ittihad remains undefeated and at the top of the league standings after their most recent victory. Al Nassr, under the leadership of Cristiano Ronaldo, came in second place last season but is currently in a precarious third-to-last place. They have failed to earn a single point through the first two games of the season. Benzema and co. will be facing Al-Wehda on Monday, August 28, 2023, in matchday 4 of the SPL.

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13:11 IST, August 25th 2023