June 29 (UPI) – Karim Benzema’s heel provided skilful nutmeg support to score the only goal in Real Madrid’s 1-0 win over Espanyol in La Liga.
Madrid’s midfielder Casemiro ended the game on Sunday at the RCDE stadium in Barcelona. The win keeps Madrid in first place in the league, just ahead of Spanish rival FC Barcelona.
“Benzema is an impressive player and he shows it in every game,” Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane told reporters.
“He’s been here for 11 years and we all enjoy his quality. One player keeps improving and every year the players get better and that’s what happens to him.
Madrid and Espanyol faced a goalless first half before Benzema put Casemiro in the first half break. Madrid left-back Marcelo started the game with a long ball on the right side of the box.
Star defender Sergio Ramos headed the ball forward and onto Benzema. The French striker chased the ball on the right side of the goal to the sideline.
Benzema then used his right heel to kick the ball between a defender’s legs before he had no limits. The pass was perfectly placed for Casemiro, who shot a shot past Espanyol goalkeeper Diego Lopez with his first touch.
“It was a good move, but Casemiro’s goal is more important because he ended it well,” said Benzema. “It was a difficult game. We won and there are three very important points that we have to take home. We are very happy.”
Madrid will host Getafe in Madrid on Thursday at 4 p.m. EDT.
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